THUNDER BAY – Lakehead University Security has received several reports of a cougar sighting around the Lakehead campus area, as well as a bear sighted near the residences. Earlier today, Ministry of Natural Resources personnel were in the area.

Wildlife near Lakehead University

Thunder Bay Police Service advises, “The public is advised that an injured bear has been spotted in the last hour in the vicinity of Lakehead University. Police are patrolling the area and the MNR has been informed. Please use caution in the area, especially on trails near Oliver Road and Balmoral Street”.

At the University, Security Services remind everyone to be aware of their surroundings when traveling on pathways on campus.

If you see a cougar or bear, please contact Security immediately @ 343-8569 and give the exact location of the sighting. When traveling around campus, please walk with a friend or call Security at 343-8569 for an escort.

The Ministry of Natural Resources offer these tips:

Tips for handling wildlife:

• Never approach the animal, especially if it is near a kill or with young, and never offer it food.

• Released or captive-reared cougars may be accustomed to humans and allow you to get close. Nevertheless, animals are unpredictable, and you should always exercise caution.

• If you see a cougar or lynx, stop, pick up small children and don’t run. Remember, its instinct is
to chase.

• If you’re with others, stay together and act as a group. Children and pets should be kept very close.

• Face the animal. Talk to it firmly while slowly backing away. Always leave the animal an escape route.

• Do not crouch down or try to hide. Try to appear larger.

• Do not take your eyes off the animal or turn your back.

• If the animal does not flee, be more assertive by shouting, waving your arms, and throwing anything available.

• If the animal attacks, fight back with everything you have.