Residents throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are reminded to help prevent encounters with black bears, which are more active in the fall as they seek food to prepare for winter hibernation.

Giving wild animals access to food creates a public safety hazard and may lead to the destruction of an animal. To avoid attracting bears to residential areas, campsites and work sites, ensure garbage is stored and disposed of properly.

In residential areas, do not place garbage in outside containers until the designated collection day, ensure barbecues are clean, and remove any fallen fruit that may be collecting around properties. Where bears have been sighted, pet owners should keep their animals inside or under close supervision.

Residents throughout the province can expect to see the continued presence of conservation officers in areas where black bear sightings have been reported, as well as bear traps that may be set to capture and relocate bears, if necessary. If you see a bear trap, please stay away from it.

Conservation officers in Labrador continue to monitor and patrol locations where black bear sightings have been reported. Bear traps are currently in place at Mud Lake, Gosling Lake, and Gull Island in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay Area.

Sightings have been reported in Northwest River, Churchill Falls, Rigolet, Port Hope Simpson, Labrador City, Mary’s Harbour, Cartwright, and communities on the south coast of Labrador.

Over the past three weeks, conservation officers have been responding to reports of black bears around the Birch Island boardwalk in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. On September 17, one bear was successfully trapped near the boardwalk and relocated. Another bear in the area reported to be behaving aggressively was euthanized by a conservation officer out of concern for public safety.

Wild animals can be dangerous and unpredictable if approached. While every situation is different, when encountering a bear, take note of its behavior.

If the bear does not see you:

• Quietly back away and leave the area.
• Try to stay downwind of the animal.
• Keep an eye on the bear.
• Never get between a bear and her cubs.

If the bear has seen or smelled you:

• Remain calm.
• Give it space and a route to get away.
• Back away but do not run.
• If you must speak, do so calmly and firmly.
• Avoid direct eye contact.

Report black bear sightings to Forestry and Wildlife offices located throughout the province.

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