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People might lump lions and tigers and bears, but in the popularity stakes, bears win out. Since for most of us, a teddy bear was our first, great love, perhaps we've stayed loyal. Earthplace taps our infatuation with bears, real and stuffed, in its "Bears Day" family event on Saturday, Jan. 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All things bears are on the agenda, including talking about the toy bears we keep in our bedroom to the habits of real bears in the woods. The day is filled with bear make-and-take projects and lots to learn about wild black bears, including bear crafts, a visit to a "bear den" and instruction on looking for signs of bears.Also, if your companion teddy bear wants to socialize, bring him for the 2 p.m. tea party, where you can share memories about your stuffed companion with others.
Real bears, such as the black bears who live in Connecticut, are quite a bit less cuddly. However the DEP's Wildlife Department's webpage describes black bears as afraid of humans and says "unlike grizzlies, (they) are seldom aggressive toward (people.)" They make their homes in forested areas, where there are lots of trees but if food is scarce will move out in search of it.
Historically, Black Bears were killed off in CT by the mid-1800s. But since the 1980s, the DEP says it has seen a growing population in the state.
And if you encounter one? Here are some tips from the DEP. Enjoy seeing the bear from a distance and let it know you're around (assuming you're sharing a backyard or outdoor area) by shouting and waving your arms or walking away, slowly. The DEP strongly suggests residents resist putting out any food for bears and asks that sightings be reported to the Department by calling (860) 675-8130. You won't need to wave off the bears you'll encounter at Earthplace's "Bears Day." But a hug or two might be in order. Admission to "Bears Day" is $18. For more information, visit Earthplace's website.
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