Polar Bear reports on the Baie Verte Peninsula

Conservation officers are responding to reports of a polar bear approximately two kilometres outside of Coachman’s Cove on the Baie Verte Peninsula, north of the Town of Baie Verte.

Residents are advised to be cautious, keep pets inside or under close supervision, and to travel in groups when outdoors.

Be sure to properly store and dispose of garbage to avoid attracting bears into communities. Never approach a fresh kill or carcass.

People are strongly encouraged to remain at a safe distance from polar bears and should not approach a polar bear under any circumstances. Those who encounter a polar bear take note of the bear’s behavior. If a bear does not see you, quietly back away and leave the area and try to stay downwind of the animal and never get between a bear and its cubs.

If a bear has seen or smelled you, remain calm and give the bear space and a route to get away. Back away, but do not run. If you must speak, do so calmly and firmly and avoid direct eye contact with the bear.

Polar bear sightings in the Baie Verte area should be reported to the Springdale Forestry Management District Office at 709-673-3821 or the after-hours emergency line at 709-673-3821.