Authorities in the North Shore region are on high alert following the sighting of a polar bear near Blanc-Sablon, a village approximately 40 kilometers from the Labrador border. On April 4, 2025, the Ministry of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks issued a warning to residents, advising them to remain vigilant.
The polar bear was first reported near the Labrador border and was seen moving towards Blanc-Sablon. In response to the sighting, a wildlife protection officer has been dispatched to the area to monitor the situation continuously and ensure public safety. According to an information bulletin from the ministry, the presence of polar bears in this region is unusual, as they typically inhabit areas farther north.
Biologist Sandra Heppell, who works with the ministry, emphasized the importance of keeping a safe distance from the polar bear. "It's a powerful and unpredictable animal," she stated, urging anyone who spots the bear to avoid approaching it. Instead, she recommends that individuals move away, remain calm, and seek shelter if necessary.
Heppell explained that polar bears occasionally wander into villages along the Lower North Shore, particularly between Chevery and Blanc-Sablon, from February to June. These bears are believed to be part of the Davis Strait population, which is estimated to number around 2,250 individuals. The ministry noted that polar bears often end up in this area due to currents and migratory patterns of ice and seals.
To ensure safety, the ministry has outlined specific guidelines for residents on how to react if they encounter a polar bear. The response should depend on the bear's behavior. If the bear is unaware of a person's presence, the ministry advises quietly backing away from the area without running, as sudden movements may attract the bear's attention. It is also important to avoid losing sight of the bear and, if possible, to stay downwind to mask one's scent.
If the bear becomes aware of a person and shows curiosity, Heppell advises remaining still and making slow movements while trying to communicate that one is human. This can be done by raising arms and speaking in a deep voice. However, if the bear charges, individuals should prepare for a potential attack, as polar bears rarely bluff. In such cases, the ministry recommends defending oneself by targeting sensitive areas, particularly the face and nose.
Despite the inherent dangers, Heppell reassured the public that polar bear sightings are typically fleeting. "In most cases, the bear will return to its natural habitat on its own," she noted. Wildlife officers have techniques to scare the bear away if necessary, ensuring that it does not pose a threat to the community.
The ministry's warning highlights the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters in the region and serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting these powerful animals. As the climate continues to change, wildlife patterns are shifting, leading to increased interactions between humans and bears.
Residents of Blanc-Sablon and surrounding areas are urged to report any sightings of the polar bear to the wildlife protection officers immediately. The ministry is committed to monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
With the presence of a polar bear so close to populated areas, the ministry's call for vigilance underscores the need for awareness and preparedness in dealing with wildlife. As Heppell aptly put it, "Understanding how to react in these situations is crucial for both human and animal safety." The community is reminded that while polar bears are magnificent creatures, they are also wild animals that must be treated with caution and respect.
