State News Stories

Connecticut warns of foraging bears amid acorn crop failure

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Wildlife officials in Connecticut are warning residents to be especially vigilant about feeding bears, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection says a widespread acorn crop failure has reduced the amount of a food bears normally depend on as they try to put on as much weight to prepare for winter hibernation. They say the lack of acorns could cause bears to forage through trash and seek out human-associated food. Officials say they've already recorded a record number of bears breaking into homes this year in Connecticut. The state's black bear population is estimated to be over 1,000.


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