Bears may look adorable, with their chubby bodies and fluffy fur, but approaching one is a definite no-go for most people. Despite their cuddly appearance, bears are wild animals with survival instincts that can make them dangerous.
As human development continues to push into wildlife areas, encounters with bears are becoming more common. These interactions often involve bears rummaging through trash or exploring vehicles while people sleep peacefully inside their homes. Recently, a Connecticut family experienced an unexpected bear encounter of a different kind: a hibernating bear under their deck.
Vincent Dashukewich discovered the surprise when he took his dog outside. His dog began to act unusually, growling at something beneath the pool deck. When Dashukewich investigated, he found a sleepy black bear lounging comfortably underneath.
Dashukewich shared with ABC News, “He’s been super chill. I’ve checked on him a few times, and he hasn’t really moved. He’s looked at me a few times, but he’s pretty calm right now.” The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection advised that as long as the bear isn’t causing any trouble, it’s best to let it be. They expect the bear, whom they’ve nicknamed Marty, to leave by the end of the month.
If Marty begins to pose a problem, the family can contact wildlife officials for assistance. While having a bear like Marty under the deck might be unsettling for some, there’s no denying that he’s quite the cozy sight, at least from a safe distance.