Branford police have reported a black bear was spotted in the Damascus Road-Windmill Hill section of town and advised resident to keep pets and children inside. 

The report was issued at 7:50 p.m. July 11 via Branford Police B-Informed Alert email contact system. The State Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) "advised to away from the bear, allowing it to retreat back into the woods," according to the B-Informed Alert message. 

Residents were also directed www.CT.GOV/DEEP for more information on black bears in the state and how to help avoid visits, including the following information:

Black bears are becoming increasingly common in Connecticut as the population continues to grow and expand.　Reports of bear sightings, even in heavily populated residential areas, have been on the rise. The Wildlife Division has also seen an increase in the number of reported problems with black bears. The　primary contributing factor to bear nuisance problems is the presence of easily-accessible food sources near homes and businesses.　Fed bears can become habituated and lose their fear of humans.　Bears should NEVER be fed, either intentionally or accidentally.

Bears are attracted to the garbage, pet food, compost piles, fruit trees, and birdfeeders.  Remove birdfeeders and bird food from late March through November.　Eliminate food attractants by placing garbage cans inside a garage or shed. Add ammonia to trash to make it unpalatable. Clean and store grills in a garage or shed after use.

Don't intentionally feed bears. Bears that become accustomed to finding food near your home may become "problem" bears. Don't approach or try to get closer to a bear to get a photo or video. Don't leave pet food outside overnight. Don't　add meat or sweets to a compost pile.