To the Editor:

Bear encounters can definitely be frightening to think about here in the apex predator-free Northeast. After all, humans in Connecticut are unaccustomed to sharing space with powerful predators, and we all worry about the safety of our children, dogs, etc.

However, bears provide important services to our local ecosystem and have done so well before humans began to disconnect the land through the interstate, housing, fencing, cattle/livestock and grey infrastructure.

Despite these drastic changes to the United States, bears remain as excellent seed dispersers through their omnivorous-based fecal matter. Valuable plants to species such as pollinators and birds have been and can be planted by bears.

Bears help with controlling insect populations as they will claw and root through an old log that is teaming with insects such as termites. Bears will sometimes scavenge a carcass, helping with decomposition processes. In addition, sometimes a bear becomes food for something else, including ethical and licensed hunters.

These eco-friendly services that are provided by wildlife are essential to a beautiful and healthy planet.

Unfortunately, surprise bear encounters in Connecticut have increased in possibility, so it has become imperative to educate ourselves on the best ways to prevent and prepare for bear encounters. For instance, a picnic in the park should now include keeping a can of pepper spray on your person.

In addition, one must take effectual steps to ensure the safety of our pets and livestock. Otherwise, attacks on bears and other beneficial predators will continue with impunity and injurious injustice until they join the rest of our fallen species.

Sincerely,

Christine St. Georges

Newtown