Public Advisory: Warning Issued Regarding Black Bear Sighting in Grand Falls-Windsor

The Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division of the Department of Justice is warning residents of Grand Falls-Windsor of a black bear which has entered the community.

This weekend, an individual walking a dog near the Lions Club playground and Cordroy Walking Trail encountered a bear. Since this encounter, there have been additional sightings reported in the area recently. A bear trap has been set by the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division.

The department also reminds people to ensure they remove any garbage or food as these may attract bears. In addition, feeding wild animals is extremely dangerous as these animals can be unpredictable when approached by humans.

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 may be common at this time of year and all residents are reminded of the danger in approaching 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 07 25             12:05 p.m.