Connecticut family experiences the biggest shock of their lives when bear accidentally walks into their front yard meeting

The transition from summer to fall is one of the most beautiful seasons, and also an excellent time to explore the outdoors. Whether you're dining al fresco at an outdoor restaurant or simply enjoying the breeze on your porch, you don't have to do much to enjoy the late summer sun.

However, you may not be the only one enjoying the balmy weather! One Connecticut family learned this the hard way while lounging outside on their front lawn while the kids played nearby. Everyone was relaxed and oblivious until one of their children pointed out that a bear was coming to their party! The shocking footage was shared by @wearecbsnewyork on August 23 and has been viewed by over 10 million people so far.

OMG – that was a close call! It doesn't look like the bear was foraging or aggressive, but you never know what can happen when a human encounters such a large animal. Black bears can grow to be massive, but even small ones can do serious damage if provoked!

Related: Giant bear casually strolls through California neighborhood like it's his job

Luckily, someone saw this big bear coming towards them while everyone else had their backs turned. If you turn up the volume on the video, a cute little voice cries out, “Bear coming!” Listen carefully! This little boy had his eyes open and is always taken seriously after a statement like that. This is the opposite of “The boy who cried wolf!”

Although black bear encounters are rare in suburban areas, they are becoming more common due to climate change and increased deforestation. Places near the mountains, like this Connecticut town, are becoming hotspots for black bear activity in residential areas. Rest assured—they're just passing through!

How to deal with a bear encounter

As mentioned, bear encounters outside of their known habitat are rare, but it's still important to know what to do if you see a bear in the wild. Black bears typically have no interest in humans, especially as prey. They may stand on their hind legs to get a better look or even sniff the air to identify you, but this is not an aggressive move. It's just curiosity!

It's natural to panic when startled, but quick movements such as running can trigger a bear's hunting instinct. Instead, try to back away slowly while speaking loudly to the bear so it understands that you are human. Attacks are extremely rare, but bear spray can be used as a last line of defense. If a bear attack by a black bear does occur, fight back!

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