A black bear was seen at about 9:30 a.m. Thursday in the area of 176 Weed St., police say.
Four residents of the area saw the bear and the animal now likely will travel to the area of Ponus Ridge or Spring Water Lane, according to New Canaan Police Department Animal Control Officer Maryann Kleinschmitt.
“We don’t know it’s age or size yet,” she said.
Kleinschmitt added: “The last one we had was two years ago. It’s pretty cyclical.”
Asked what residents should do if they spot the bear, Kleinschmitt said to do nothing, continue talking and don’t chase or run away away from them.
“It’s not a major concern but people should take in their birdfeeders or any food they have outside,” Kleinschmitt said.
“This is more than likely a male between 250 and 300 pounds, where the mom kicks him out of the den and says, ‘Go and find your own property.’ ”
Kleinschmitt said her biggest concern is that the bear gets onto the Merritt Parkway.
NewCanaanite.com will have more information as it becomes available.
Here’s where the bear was spotted: