There have been confirmed bear sightings in Lyme this fall. There are currently no known resident bears in Lyme, but they travel through and eventually may settle here. Black Bears are usually shy and afraid of humans. They are seldom aggressive except for a female who feels her cubs are threatened. Bears that have become acclimatized to humans, through intentional or unintentional feeding, become a problem. If a bear is in the neighborhood, contact should be avoided by eliminating their access to human food and livestock. Bears have an extremely sensitive sense of smell.
- Bird feeders should be removed between late-April and Late October.
- Livestock should be protected. Beehives should be fenced.
- Prevent access to compost heaps, garbage cans, and barbecue grills. Use ammonia and lime to mask odors.
- In most hiking areas, bears normally leave once they have sensed a human. If you see a bear, keep your distance. If a bear comes close, make loud noises and wave your hands. Back away slowly. Do not run or climb a tree.
- Keep dogs leashed and under control.
- As a general rule, do not feed wild animals.
Report sightings to Lyme Land Trust Newsletter Editor Mary Guitar at maryguitar@comcast.net.
