The Bear Facts: Natural History of Black Bears with Paul Colburn

LITCHFIELD, Conn. - July 9, 2016 - PRLog -- The Black Bear is an impressive animal. Males, or boars, normally weigh between 150 to 450 pounds, while females, or sows, weigh from 110 to 250 pounds. Adults are generally five to six feet long. Good tree climbers and strong swimmers, they can run up to 35 miles per hour! Encountering a bear in Connecticut was once rare as they had been extirpated from the state by the mid-1800s. Their return is due, in part, to the regrowth of forestland. Since 1980s, annual sightings have increased dramatically as more people and infrastructure have moved into rural areas.

The Bear Facts presentation will focus on the natural history of black bears in Connecticut by giving an overview of their habitat, diet and  behavior and current research. Learn all about this fascinating animal and ways to coexist with our bear population.

Paul Colburn is a graduate of Master Wildlife Conservationist Program and is a certified Master Wildlife Conservationist. The MWCP trains participants in the fields of wildlife management, natural history and interpretation. In addition to his work as a MWC, he volunteers for the Wesleyan University Admissions, the Red Cross and The Connecticut Sports   Foundation. Paul holds a BA from Wesleyan University and served in the United States Army.

All Oliver Wolcott Library events are free and open to the public. Space is limited. Registration is required and can be done by calling 860-567-8030 or logging onto www.owlibrary.org and clicking on Programs/Adult Programs.