Polar Bear Alert Up In St. Anthony, New Foundland

March 30, 2008 10:03 a.m. EST

Jupiter Kalambakal - AHN News Writer

St. Anthony, Newfoundland (AHN) -- A polar bear warning was issued to residents living around St. Anthony on Newfoundland's Northern Peninsula due to confirmed sightings in the area, police authorities said Saturday.

According to Cpl. Chad Norman of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the animal was spotted late Friday about 15 kilometers outside town by a RCMP helicopter patrol.

The 600-pound bear was seen roaming 150 meters from the highway.

While there is no direct threat to public safety, Norman advised residents not to approach the bear if they it. He also directed the public to keep their garbage as well as their pets inside

The RCMP likewise cautioned residents to avoid the place where the bear was last seen for a few days until conservation officers have decided on what to do with the animal.

Any sighting of a polar bear is requested to be reported to Roddickton Forest Management Office.