Public Advisory: Department Warns Against Feeding Black Bears

The Department of Natural Resources is warning of the dangers of feeding black bears. Residents are encouraged to avoid feeding these wild animals.

Reports of people feeding black bears have increased significantly, particularly along the Trans Labrador Highway between Churchill Falls and Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The department warns residents that feeding wild animals is extremely dangerous as these animals can be unpredictable when approached by humans.

Residents are also encouraged to take appropriate steps, including the proper storage, collection and disposal of garbage, to avoid attracting bears into their communities and backyards where the animals can pose a risk to public safety. Improperly stored garbage attracts bears into communities and residents are also encouraged to refrain from storing garbage in outside containers until collection day.

If anyone encounters a bear, they are reminded to:

• Remain calm;
• Back away slowly and do not run;
• Avoid eye contact with the bear; and,
• Remove any garbage or food that may have attracted the bear.

Bears are common in Labrador at this time of the year and all residents are reminded of the danger in feeding these animals. Anyone sighting black bears is asked to please contact their local Forest Management Office.

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Media contact:
Ken Morrissey
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 685-6612
kenmorrissey@gov.nl.ca 

2010 07 09                                                    3:45 p.m.