The black bear population in Connecticut has continued to increase since the 1980. It's important for residents and outdoor enthusiasts to learn real facts about black bears enabling them to stay safe, protect themselves and their property and make possible coexistence with bears.

Felicia Ortner, a Connecticut Master Wildlife Conservationist (MWC) and a bear enthusiast, will provide education and facts about bears and help dispel myths and common misunderstandings. Accumulated data supports the black bear is seldom aggressive toward humans. Felicia has been studying about bears for over 30 years. In the mid 1990's Felicia turned her passion for learning about bears into a passion for teaching about them. She created an education program called The Bear Reality.  In 2008 Felicia developed a presentation for bear education programs she presents on a volunteer basis. Her audiences include libraries, nature centers, conservation groups, scouts and more.Since then, Felicia has provided presentations reaching over 9000 people at programs in CT, NY, MA, NH and, VT.