Patch’s Poll: Is it Just Us, Or Are There More Bears These Days?

Bear sightings are common in places like Litchfield County, which is one of the more rural areas in Connecticut.

But Cheshire resident said it wasn't common when her ancestors kept diaries beginning in the 1700s!

I have read lots of my Cheshire ancestors' letters and diaries starting in the 1700s and most especially starting in the 1860s and through the 1930s and NO mention of bears. 

Lots of foxes in those early days taking out the chickens, and such. 

Back to 2012 there have been a few notable sightings in the more populated, suburban areas of this state.

Just last week, encountered a bear that reportedly attacked his dog, prompting the man to pull a gun out and fire at the bear.

A black bear earlier this month, last month, , and there were more sightings in Avon, , and so on.

The Department of Environmental and Energy Protection has the full list of reported sightings this year.

Do you think there are more bears now in Connecticut than there has been before? Take our poll and share your thoughts in the comments.