Polar bear captured on Avalon Peninsula

Bears are not native to the Avalon Peninsula and seeing polar bears are certainly not a normal occurrence.

On Thursday a polar bear was spotted in the areas of Red Head Cove and Grates Cove on the Baccalieu Trail.

Conservation officers later located and removed the animal from the area.

Polar bears have been spotted in several areas of the province recently, most notably on the Northern Peninsula.

Polar bear safety tips:

• If you encounter a bear quietly back away and leave the area.

• Stay downwind, if possible.

• Never get between a bear and her cubs.

• Act non-threatening and do not shout or make sudden movements.

If the bear shows signs of stalking or hunting you, fight back. Use any potential weapon, group together and make loud noises. The worst thing you can do is run. Be prepared to use deterrents.

Source: Parks Canada