Photo: Peter Dounoukos
A bear has been spotted on the south side of Highway 401 near Theatre Road in Cobourg, prompting reminders from police and the Ontario government about what to do during bear sightings.
Officials say the bear does not currently pose a threat, but residents are encouraged to stay alert and avoid approaching it.
Bears may wander into populated areas in search of food, especially in warmer months. Not all sightings are considered emergencies. If a bear is simply roaming or passing through and not behaving aggressively, residents are asked to call the province’s toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327. The line operates 24/7 from March to November and offers advice on managing attractants and preventing encounters.
Emergency calls should be made to 911 only if a bear enters a schoolyard during class, stalks people, enters homes, harms pets, or acts aggressively.
To avoid attracting bears, officials recommend keeping garbage stored securely, removing bird feeders, and cleaning barbecue grills.
For more tips and information, visit Ontario.ca/bearwise.
Cobourg Police and the Ministry of Natural Resources are monitoring the situation. If needed, MNR staff may assist with response during daylight hours.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
