March 14, 2000
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Polar bear sightings

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, encourages the public to contact officials immediately when polar bears are sighted.

"It is normal this time of year for polar bears to be seen in some areas of the province. The public should not take situations upon themselves but should leave the matter with trained professional staff," Mr. Aylward stated. "Anybody who sights a polar bear in or around a community should call their nearest wildlife office immediately."

Officers from the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods are investigating the killing of a polar bear that wandered into the community of St. Juliens on the Great Northern Peninsula on Saturday, March 11. The bear, a young 500 pound female, was shot by a resident of the community. Conservation officers have taken possession of the bear which is presently secured in cold storage.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting of the bear are under investigation and officers are interviewing witnesses in an attempt to ascertain the rationale leading up to the killing of the bear.

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, (709) 729-6183.

2000 03 14                                     3:30 p.m.