Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Deterring Bears with Electric Fencing

Conflicts can occur when wildlife has easy access to unprotected food sources, including crops and livestock. Black bears, coyotes, bobcats, and other wildlife can cause livestock, agricultural, and structural damage without proper protective measures in place.

The best approach to managing conflicts with wildlife is preventing them in the first place.

Electric fencing is the most cost effective way to protect beehives, chicken coops, livestock enclosures, gardens, and feed storage. Electric fencing is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, including multi-strand wire fencing that stands alone or incorporated into existing barriers such as a wooden or metal fence. 

Below is a collection of resources for those looking for additional information on electric fencing.

Electric Fence Workshops

Electric Fence SetupRecently, the DEEP Wildlife Division began offering free workshops that focus on proper electric fence installation, including tips on how to successfully deter bears and other wildlife from damaging apiaries and chicken coops. These workshops are a great place to start for those not only considering the use of electric fencing, but also for those who have experienced difficulty with their setup. Registration is required to attend.

2026 Offerings: 

  • Sunday, April 19, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area (341 Milford Street, Burlington, Connecticut 06013). 
  • Saturday, May 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Kellogg Environmental Center (500 Hawthorne Ave, Derby, CT 06418).
  • Monday, June 8, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Dinosaur State Park (400 West Street, Rocky Hill, Connecticut, 06067).
  • Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., at Franklin Swamp Wildlife Management Area (391 Route 32 North Franklin, Connecticut 06254).  

Content last updated on March 11, 2026.