The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has been made aware of reports of polar bears in and around the communities of St. Anthony, Port Hope Simpson, St. Lewis and Black Tickle.
Conservation officers with the department are monitoring the areas and encouraging residents to take appropriate steps to avoid a polar bear encounter.
Residents should keep pets inside or under close supervision, travel in groups when outdoors if possible, and never approach a fresh kill or carcass. Be sure to properly store and dispose of garbage to avoid attracting bears into communities where they present a risk to public safety.
Under no circumstances should residents approach a polar bear. While every situation is different, when encountering a polar bear take note of the bear’s behavior.
If the bear does not see you:
- Quietly back away and leave the area;
- Try to stay downwind of the animal;
- Keep an eye on the bear; and
- Never get between a bear and her cubs.
If the bear has seen or smelled you:
- Remain calm;
- Give the bear space and a route to get away;
- Back away but do not run;
- If you must speak, do so calmly and firmly; and
- Avoid direct eye contact with the bear.
Based on previous year’s observations of polar bear migration patterns, communities along the tip of the Northern Peninsula and south coast of Labrador may observe polar bears during this time of year.
Polar bear sightings in the St. Anthony area should be reported to the Roddickton Forestry Management District Office at 709-457-2300, or the after hour emergency line at 709-457-7243.
Polar bear sightings in southern Labrador should be reported to the Port Hope Simpson Forest Management Office at 709-960-0400, or the after hour emergency line at 709-897-7116.
-30-
