Conn. shuts hiking trails after bear approaches hiker

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut environmental officials say they closed hiking trails at a Burlington wildlife area after a hiker reported that a bear approached her.

Dennis Schain, spokesman for the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, said Friday the agency closed trails at Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area.

He said the agency set a trap and will euthanize the bear if wildlife biologists get the opportunity. The bear is about 1-1/2 years old and weighs 150 pounds.

Video taken by the hiker shows the bear had previously been tagged by agency staff.

Schain says the bear followed the hiker and circled her when she stopped walking. He says the bear's behavior is unusual because the animals generally don't approach people.

The trails are closed until further notice.

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