Possible Mountain Lion Spotted in Tolland

Reports that a mountain lion has been seen in the area near Sand Hill Road has caused town officials to warn residents to be aware of the possibility that such an animal is in the area, at least until they can confirm whether the sighting is legitimate.

In town e-blast (the electonic notification system) sent out at 3:30 this afternoon, Public Safety Supervisor John C. Littell let residents know that town officials are working with the state Department of Environmental Protection and the state police to investigate the sighting.

DEP spokesman Dennis Schain said Friday afternoon that the department is taking all reports seriously.

Over the last few days, the DEP has received several calls of mountain lion sightings, particularly since one was  and there was credible was .

Schain said aside from those two instances there has not been another credible sighting in the state for about 100 years.

State Police Lt. J. Paul Vance said, in general, if state police are told of such as sighting troopers will notify the state DEP.

People who think they've seen a mountain lion are able to call the DEP's hotline at 860-424-3333. Schain said any other evidence, such as pictures, paw prints, hair or feces, will help in any investigation.

In other wildlife news, earlier this week Littell announced that there have been confirmed .

Tolland Animal Control offered these tips for residents on how to protect their property, themselves and the wildlife:

• Do not leave food, garbage and other items that are attractive to wildlife outside in areas close to houses so as to not attract animals to residential areas. 
• Do not leave children or small pets unattended.
• Wildlife should be enjoyed from a distance; people should refrain from getting too close and should never try to pet or feed any type of wild animal.