On Monday, September 4th, 2017 a bow hunter, who was in a tree stand in a wooded area on private land near Weirdale, was attacked by a mother black bear with cubs. The bear had climbed up the tree unknown to the hunter. After fighting off the bear, the injured hunter managed to get himself back to his truck and drove himself to seek help from his fellow hunters. Unconfirmed reports state that he suffered extensive injuries to his arm and leg and a long recovery is anticipated.
Parkland Ambulance Paramedics responded to an incident at 7:37 pm, Monday, September 4, 3 miles east of Weirdale for a man who was attacked by a bear. Paramedics cared for a 39-year-old male with serious injuries and he was taken to Victoria Hospital for further care and treatment. He has since been transferred to Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon where he remains in good and stable condition.
According to Prince Albert Conservation Officer, Kevin Harrison, the bear may have also been injured. CO’s attended the scene Monday evening but were unable to locate the bear. Officers returned the next morning and several live traps were set.
Numerous warning signs have been posted in the area and Conservation Officers are requesting that residents avoid the area until the bear and her cubs have been captured. The fewer people in the area the more effective their efforts to trap the bears will be.
CO Harrison also wanted to remind the public that it’s important to be alert when spending time out in rural areas. Carry bear spray and when confronted with a black bear be prepared to fight back. Do not play dead, instead use anything you can as a weapon, a stick, a rock, your back pack, whatever you can get to in time. Be alert to your surroundings and if you see a bear, leave the area. While most bears won’t attack, it can still be a dangerous situation.
If you encounter this bear or any other of concern, you can call your local Conservation office (Nipawin 306-862-1790) or the Toll-Free line at 1-800-667-7561. On your cell phone call #5555
**Important note: The exact location of the attack is not being specified due to necessary efforts to keep people from inadvertently interfering with the attempts to capture the bear and to ensure the safety of the public. Local land owners are aware and warning signs have been posted to ensure anyone in the vicinity of the area is aware of the risk.
Weirdale is located approximately 93 km west of Nipawin, SK
