Newtown

Hiker Injured by Black Bear in Southbury

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection officials are investigating after a hiker was injured by a black bear in the woods on Saturday.

EnCon police were called near Lake Zoar in Southbury after getting a report of an incident with a black bear.

Authorities said a man encountered a black bear while hiking in the woods and was knocked down by it. The man was able to safely getaway from the bear, which fled into the woods.

The 38-year-old Newtown man was taken to Danbury Hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries, experts said.

According to DEEP officials, EnCon Police conducted a search and could not find the bear. Wildlife biologists have set a trap in the area and are monitoring it.

If you observe a black bear from a distance, DEEP suggests you advertise your presence with noise or movement and walk away slowly. Never attempt to feed or attract black bears. It is exceptionally rare for a bear to attack once they have sensed a human.

Bears are typically attracted to garbage, pet food, compost piles, fruit trees and birdfeeders, according to DEEP. For a list of do's and don't on what to do when you encounter a bear, click here.

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