It’s black bear breeding season. Here’s what you need to know

(WFSB) - Connecticut wildlife officials alerted people this week that black bear breeding season was underway.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said that by now, female bears have sent their yearlings off on their own, and young male bears will travel great distances to establish their own home range and/or find a mate.

In July, it is common to see multiple bears pass through suburban neighborhoods, especially since most people are spending more time outside during summer, DEEP said.

During the peak of outdoor grilling season, DEEP urged people clean up greasy grills, secure garbage, clear food scraps, and make sure birdfeeders have been removed from yards.

It said taking those steps could help prevent human-bear conflicts and protect bears in communities.

More information on black bears in Connecticut can be found here.