Connecticut Considers Bear Hunt
WINDSOR, CT (CBSNewYork) - The shooting of a backyard bear in Windsor has renewed discussion of whether there should be a bear hunt in Connecticut.
WCBS 880's Sean Adams On The Story
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Right now, this is all preliminary - the beginning phase.
As Connecticut's bear population flourishes, environmental officials are looking to the future and they're laying the groundwork for a possible bear hunt - dealing with things like permitting, etc.
Dennis Shane of Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) says they're proceeding slowly and learning from the experience in New Jersey.
"We know it's an emotional topic. We understand there are some strong public feelings all about this issue and we only hope that in Connecticut we can have a discussion that is based on facts, that's civil," Shane told WCBS 880 reporter Sean Adams.
The bear population is estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 and expected to double every five to seven years.
Over the past year, there have been more than 2,700 sightings, most of them north and west of Hartford.
Shane says there's no hunt planned right now, but the topic is up for discussion and debate.
Where do to stand, for or against a bear hunt? Sound off in the comments section below!
