Wildlife officials have confirmed the presence of a polar bear on the Northern Peninsula and have issued a warning to residents.
The bear was seen on Green Island, about one kilometre from the town of Cook’s Harbour. Conservation officers are monitoring the animal’s movements.
Those living in the area are asked to take care to avoid encountering a polar bear, or attracting one into a community. Travel in groups, keep pets under supervision, and properly dispose of garbage.
If a polar bear has taken notice of you, remain calm, give the bear space to get away, avoid eye contact, back away but never run.
Polar bear sightings in the area should be reported to the Forestry and Wildlife office in Roddickton-Bide Arm at 709-454-8435 or the standby number at 457-7243.
