Bear Safety in Newfoundland: Your Guide to Hiking Near Whale House Guest House
Newfoundland is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting a vast wilderness where black and polar bears roam. At Whale House Guest House, nestled close to the scenic East Coast Trail in Mobile, we're here to ensure your hike, whether on the East Coast Trail, Gros Morne National Park, or the Torrengat Mountains, is memorable and safe. Here's an updated guide to bear safety in Newfoundland, reflecting the latest information as of 2025.
Are there Newfoundland Polar Bear Attacks?
Newfoundland Polar Bear attacks and bear sightings are more common than you think. The Northern Labrador coast boasts some of the densest polar bear populations on the planet, but Polar Bears have been spotted along all parts of coastal Newfoundland and Labrador. In the springtime, when icebergs are abundant, polar bears float up to communities and appear out of nowhere. Just a few years ago, there was a Newfoundland Polar Bear Attack where a family was trapped in a cabin while the Polar Bear attempted to break down the front door.
Newfoundland Black Bear Attacks
Black Bear attacks in Newfoundland are even more common than Polar Bear attacks. Black Bears can be found throughout the woods of Newfoundland. Recently there was a Black Bear Spotted on the East Coast Trail near the community of Ferryland.
How do I report Newfoundland Bear Sightings on the East Coast Trail?
If you see a black bear on the East Coast Trail, call the province's wildlife division at (709) 637-2025.
Understanding Bear Populations in Newfoundland
- Black Bears: Present throughout the province, with dense populations in parks like Terra Nova and Gros Morne.
- Polar Bears: More common near the Labrador coast, especially during spring with iceberg sightings, but also occasionally spotted further south.
Recent Bear Sightings:
- In 2024, several polar bear sightings near Witless Bay were documented, reminding us of the importance of vigilance during specific seasons.
Identifying Bear Signs
- Footprints: Look for large prints with claw marks; black bear tracks can be up to 6 inches long.
- Scat: Distinctively large and often contains remnants of their diet like berries or fur.
- Scratch Marks: Vertical claw marks on trees signify territory marking.
- Bear Trails: Bent grasses or disturbed underbrush can indicate bear paths.
- Fresh Kill: A sign that a bear might be nearby.
Bear Safety Tips for Hikers
If You Encounter a Bear:
- Stay Calm: Panic is your enemy; calm responses are key.
- Back Away Slowly: Never run; maintain eye contact on the bear but avoid direct eye contact as it can be seen as a challenge.
- Make Yourself Big: Arms up, speak loudly but calmly.
- Use Bear Spray: If the bear charges, aim for the face from about 20-30 feet away.
- Give Space: Ensure the bear has an escape route.
General Safety Measures:
- Hike in Groups: Bears are less likely to approach groups.
- Make Noise: Regularly talk or clap to avoid surprising bears.
- Food Storage: Use bear-proof containers or hang food away from your campsite.
- Pet Control: Keep pets leashed to avoid attracting bears.
- Stay on Trails: Bears are more common off-trail.
Newfoundland Polar Bear Encounters
Newfoundland Polar Bear encounters and attacks are most likely to occur in the spring when the icebergs are in and during sea ice conditions. Newfoundlanders have been killed when attacked by polar bears in Newfoundland. Just ask any elder in any Newfoundland coastal community about Newfoundland polar bears and Newfoundland bear attacks.
Newfoundland Polar Bear Safety
Be aware, especially in the spring when the pack ice is in and icebergs are on the go. Pay attention to advisories, and if a Polar Bear has been spotted in the area, stay indoors. If you see a Polar Bear, do not approach it and get to safety immediately. There is no such thing as playing dead with a Polar Bear (or Black Bear) and if a Polar Bear finds you, it's likely going to eat you. Yes, polar bears are a thing in Newfoundland where you don't need to look far to find stories of Polar Bear attacks. In August 2024 there was a man killed by polar bear in Newfoundland. Being aware during polar bear season is the best way to avoid a Newfoundland Polar Bear Encounter.
Newfoundland Black Bear Attacks
Black Bears and Polar Bears can be found in Newfoundland, and documented attacks are all over the internet. Black bears inhabit most of Newfoundland and Labrador, so you shouldn’t be surprised if you encounter one, no matter where you go explore. FYI playing dead with either of these bears is bound to end up deadly. Unlike Polar Bears, an encounter with a Black Bear isn't likely to end up deadly, even though sometimes it does. With basic bear awareness, mainly to do with food storage and how to avoid and diffuse black bear encounters, you can enjoy you time in Newfoundland Black Bear country.
The TLDR about bear safety is don't run, back away, and give space. If the bear approaches, keep backing up facing the bear, speak in an assertive voice, and look big. If it gets serious, stand your ground. If the bear is close enough to almost give you a kiss and you have bear spray, this is the time to use it. If it attacks you, fight it. Go for the eyes and nose.
Newfoundland Black Bear Safety Tips
- Keep food secure and away from your tent, ideally in a bear-proof food cache.
- Make noise when hiking. Surprising bears can have a negative effect.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Newfoundland's rugged beauty attracts hikers and nature lovers from all over, especially to trails like the East Coast Trail. At Whale House Guest House, the stunning East Coast Trail offers guests unparalleled hiking experiences. Although bear sightings are rare, it's crucial to know how to spot signs of bears in Newfoundland and what to do if you encounter one.
Spotting Signs of Bears
- Footprints: Large paw prints with five toes and visible claw marks.
- Scat: Large droppings containing remnants of berries, seeds, and fur.
- Scratch Marks: Vertical claw marks on tree trunks.
- Bear Trails: Well-worn paths through vegetation.
- Fresh Kill: Indicates a bear may be nearby.
What Experts Recommend When Encountering a Newfoundland Bear
- Stay Calm: Bears usually want to avoid human interaction.
- Don’t Run: Running can trigger a chase response. Back away slowly while facing the bear.
- Make Yourself Big: Raise your arms or a jacket to appear larger.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be perceived as a threat.
- Give It Space: Ensure the bear has a clear escape route.
- Use Bear Spray: Aim for the bear’s face and use it within 20-30 feet.
How to Stay Bear Safe on the East Coast Trail
You don't have to go far to see headlines like bear spotted on East Coast Trail. To minimize the risk of bear encounters:
- Hike in Groups: Bears are less likely to approach larger groups.
- Make Noise: Talk, sing, or clap hands periodically.
- Store Food Properly: Use bear-proof containers.
- Keep Pets Leashed: Unleashed pets can provoke bears.
- Stay on Trails: Bears are more common in dense forests.
While bear sightings near Whale House Guest House are rare, knowing how to identify signs and handle encounters is crucial for your safety. Enjoy the beauty of Newfoundland’s East Coast Trail with peace of mind by staying informed and prepared. Happy hiking!