Spotted on the pack ice north of Twillingate, Newfoundland, yesterday. A big bear, in good condition. Wonderful sight.
Polar bears are not unusual on the NE coast of Newfoundland this time of year. This chap would be following the seal herds, which are whelping on the pack ice. Sometimes they do come ashore and are stranded if the ice moves off. Very young or old bears are the most dangerous, as they are often hungry. Wildlife officials will transport stranded bears back out to the ice edge, if possible.