Via DNR release info:
The Dartmouth bear is back in the wild.
Bear sightings are becoming increasingly common across Nova Scotia as bears venture into urban areas, particularly as they prepare for hibernation. While these encounters might seem alarming, they generally end peacefully, as we saw yesterday in Downtown Dartmouth. After a black bear was spotted in Dartmouth Commons, two local schools went into lockdown. The bear was eventually tranquilized while hiding in a tree and safely released back into the wild. The Department of Natural Resources even shared a tweet celebrating the successful relocation, noting that they always prefer to release bears back into their natural habitat when possible.
From the inbox: Dartmouth bear comes on down. (Tks Rebecca Pate) pic.twitter.com/SMw9yvQjKX
— Halifax info and traffic releases (@haligonia) September 19, 2024
We’re pleased to report that our staff were successful in tranquilizing and removing a young black bear from a tree on the Dartmouth Commons today. They are relocating it to an appropriate location. Many thanks to @HfxRegPolice @hfxfire @RCMPNS for their help. pic.twitter.com/aH4eE7tjuK
— Natural Resources and Renewables (@NS_DNRR) September 19, 2024
We successfully released the black bear back into the wild after rescuing it on the Dartmouth Commons yesterday. This is always our preferred outcome. We only euthanize as last resort for public safety and/or when it's the most humane thing for the animal. Happy trails, Mr. Bear! pic.twitter.com/jmxfv2vFzz
— Natural Resources and Renewables (@NS_DNRR) September 20, 2024
This isn’t an isolated incident. Earlier this year, a bear with cubs was spotted near Appian Way in Dartmouth, prompting similar warnings for residents to secure food sources. In rural areas like Pugwash, bear sightings are more frequent, with locals reporting daily visits from these animals in their backyards. One resident even shared a photo of a bear running through a field last summer. And if you take a cruise down the back roads of Colchester County on garbage day, you’re likely to spot a few bears investigating compost bins, especially as the bears prepare for winter.
These encounters remind us that as urban areas expand into bear habitats, these curious creatures are bound to explore—especially when food is involved.