Public Advisory: Department Warns Against Feeding Black Bears

The Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division of the Department of Justice 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 road between North West River 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. Residents should for example 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; and,
• Avoid eye contact with 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 one of the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement offices listed below:

Eastern Newfoundland Region – 709-729-8377
Western Newfoundland Region – 709-637-4068
Labrador Region – 709-282-3433

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Media contact:
Vanessa Colman-Sadd
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 682-6593
vanessacolmansadd@gov.nl.ca 

2011 05 27             12:05 p.m.