Public Advisory: Polar Bear Warning Issued for Northern Peninsula Areas

  • Fisheries and Land Resources

March 15, 2018

Residents are cautioned about polar bears reported in several areas on the Northern Peninsula, including St. Anthony, Great Brehat, St.Carol’s, Roddickton and Griquet.

Residents who live in areas where polar bears have been known to frequent are encouraged to take appropriate steps to avoid an encounter with bears. This includes being aware of your surroundings, keeping pets inside or under close supervision, travelling in groups when possible, never approaching a fresh kill or carcass, and adhering to the proper storage, collection and disposal of garbage to avoid attracting bears into communities and backyards.

Under no circumstances should residents approach the polar bear. While every encounter is different, if an individual encounters a polar bear, they should first take note of the bear’s behavior. If the bear does not know you are there:

  • Quietly back away and leave the area;
  • Try and 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, get out of the situation, never run;
  • If you must speak, do so calmly and firmly; and
  • Avoid direct eye contact with the bear.

Anyone sighting a polar bear is asked to contact the local District Forestry and Wildlife Office in Roddickton at 709-457-2300 or St. Anthony at 709-454-8435 or 709-457-7243 after regular office hours.

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Media contact
Connie Boland
Fisheries and Land Resources
709-637-2923, 640-6409
connieboland@gov.nl.ca

2018 03 15 1:25 pm