Don't shoot!

A black bear who might look something like this has been making the rounds in Woodbridge (that's just over the New Haven line) and he, or an ursine relative, also has been spotted in the Valley.

Across the state, from July 18, 2007 to today, there have been 1,704 bear sightings, the state Department of Environmental Protection says. None in New Haven, but while those are not likely all different animals, but bears sure seem to like the Nutmeg State.

Read the full story here:

http://www.nhregister.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19853453&BRD=1281&PAG=461&dept_id=635058&rfi=6

The Connecticut DEP also offers these tips on bears:

DO make bird feeders and bird food inaccessible by discontinuing the feeding of birds from late March through November or by hanging feeders at least ten feet above the ground and six feet away from tree trunks. DO eliminate food attractants by placing garbage cans inside a garage or shed. Add ammonia to trash to make it unpalatable.DO clean and store grills away after use.DON'T intentionally feed bears. Bears that become accustomed to finding food near your home may become "problem" bears.DON'T leave pet food outside overnight.DON'T add meat or sweets to a compost pile.

For more from the DEP, visit:

http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2723&q=325930&depNav_GID=1655