How Does Churchill, Canada, Deal with Polar Bears?

In Churchill, Manitoba, for a few months during the year, polar bears nearly outnumber citizens. Churchill, located in northern Canada, is only accessible by train or plane but is arguably the ideal meeting spot for polar bears.

Polar bears frequent Churchill so often during the coldest months of the year that the town actually has a polar bear jail where troublesome animals are held until the climate is conducive to their release. Those looking to get a more up-close and personal view of the polar bear lifestyle in Churchill can choose to go on an Arctic Discovery Safari which begins in Churchill and allows visitors to come face-to-face with polar bears.

More about polar bears:

• A polar bear will wag its head from side to side to initiate play with other polar bears.
• Polar bears spend their lives going through phases of feasting and fasting.
• Polar bears will share food with an onlooking polar bear if it begs in a certain manner; remaining low to the ground, circling the carcass once and touching the nose of the bear in charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What measures has Churchill, Canada, implemented to coexist with polar bears?

Churchill has developed a Polar Bear Alert Program, which includes a dedicated bear patrol that uses non-lethal methods to deter bears from the town. They also have a holding facility for bears that wander into town, where they are kept until they can be safely relocated. Public education on bear safety is also a key component of their strategy.

How does the Polar Bear Alert Program work?

The Polar Bear Alert Program operates by monitoring bear activity around Churchill. When a bear is spotted near the community, trained personnel respond to the sighting, using various techniques like noise-makers or rubber bullets to discourage the bear from entering populated areas. Bears that pose a repeated risk are tranquilized and moved to a holding facility temporarily.

What happens to polar bears that are captured in Churchill?

Captured polar bears are housed in a specialized holding facility, often referred to as the "polar bear jail," until they can be safely released back into the wild. The release typically coincides with the freezing of the Hudson Bay, allowing bears to return to their natural habitat to hunt seals on the ice.

How does Churchill educate the public about polar bear safety?

Churchill provides education through community programs, warning systems, and literature on how to avoid bear encounters and what to do if one occurs. This includes keeping a safe distance from bears, securing food sources, and understanding bear behavior. Tour operators also play a role in educating visitors about maintaining a safe and respectful distance from wildlife.

Are there any special construction requirements for buildings in Churchill to prevent bear break-ins?

While there are no specific construction codes for bear break-ins, residents of Churchill often take precautions such as installing bear-proof windows and doors, using bear-proof containers for garbage, and ensuring that no food attractants are left outside. These measures help reduce the likelihood of bears attempting to enter buildings in search of food.

What role do tourists play in Churchill's polar bear management?

Tourists are vital to Churchill's economy, but they also need to adhere to strict guidelines to ensure their safety and the bears' well-being. Tour operators educate visitors on proper behavior, and tourists are expected to follow local regulations, such as not feeding or approaching bears, to minimize negative interactions between humans and bears.