FORT FRANCES — In the early morning of April 12, resident Robert Johnson noticed a black bear cub wandering his neighbourhood on Sixth Street.
In Johnson's footage, the 30-second clip showed the cub strolling along a neighbour's lawn and looking in a recycling bin before wandering on its way.
When asked if black bears are a frequent sight this time of year, Johnson said, “We usually see him/her in the evening and again in the wee hours of the next morning.
"I do believe the bear has a den around our place somewhere, because last fall they ate all the apples off our apple trees.”
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) states that a surprised black bear will give off warning signs to let you know you are too close by standing on its hind legs. This is not a sign of aggression but a way for the bear to get a better look at potential threats.
The MNRF advises the public not to approach the bear when spotted. Keep a safe distance; however, if the bear approaches, throw objects, wave your arms and make noise with a whistle, air horn or by yelling.
The MNRF also stated that playing dead is only an option if there is a mother bear with cubs.
In the case of Johnson's video, there was a single bear cub; therefore, the mother shouldn’t be too far behind.
The MNRF said do not run, climb a tree or swim away from the bear. Do not attempt to feed a bear.
If a bear attacks, the MNRF said to use bear spray and immediately leave the area.
If a person does not have bear spray handy, fight back.
