Black Bear Spotted in Westport This Weekend

Some residents in the Weston Road area of town received a visit from an unwanted guest this weekend.

Westport Police released an advisory Sunday stating that a black bear was "actively roaming in the Weston Road area seeking residential garbage."

Residents reported to WestportNow sightings in backyards on Tupelo Road and Bayberry Lane.

Police advise residents not to approach a black bear, to be aware of surroundings when outside, and to take caution when letting your pets out.

The State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has a list of Dos and Don'ts when it comes to bear sightings near residential areas.

"Bears are attracted to the garbage, pet food, compost piles, fruit trees, and bird feeders around houses," DEEP states.

The DEEP's tips to minimize visits from black bears include:

• DO remove bird feeders and bird food from late March through November
• DO place garbage cans inside garage or shed; add ammonia to trash to make it "unpalatable"
• DO clean and store grills after use
• DON'T intentionally feed bears. They could become accustomed to finding food at your house and become "problem" bears
• DON'T leave pet food outside overnight
• DON'T add meat or sweets to your compost pile

Have you spotted any black bears near your home recently? Let us know when and where. Send photos to caitlin.mazzola@patch.com