Brave Canadian Man Risks Life to Shield Wife from Polar Bear Attack in Remote Arctic Community Amid Growing Wildlife Encounters
In a harrowing encounter in Canada’s far north, a man from Fort Severn First Nation jumped onto a polar bear to save his wife from a sudden attack.
The couple, whose names have not been released, left their home around 5:00 am local time on Tuesday to search for their dogs. Unbeknownst to them, a polar bear was lurking in their driveway. The bear lunged at the woman, but before it could maul her, her husband intervened by leaping onto the massive predator.
According to the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, the woman slipped and fell during the attack, while her husband fought off the bear. The animal retaliated, severely injuring the man’s arms and legs.
A neighbor quickly came to the rescue, shooting the bear several times. The wounded predator retreated into nearby woods, where it later succumbed to its injuries.
The injured man was rushed to a local nursing station, where he was treated for his serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Police have since increased patrols in the area to ensure the community’s safety.
Polar Bears and Human Encounters
Alysa McCall, a scientist at Polar Bear International, told CBC News that such attacks are rare. Polar bears typically prefer hunting seals on sea ice and rarely venture into human settlements. However, climate change has disrupted their natural habitats, sometimes driving them inland in search of food.
“When a polar bear attacks, it’s often because the bear is hungry, young, or unwell,”
McCall explained.
She also debunked a common myth, urging anyone attacked by a polar bear to fight back rather than play dead.
A Community on Alert
Fort Severn First Nation, a remote Ontario community with a population of about 400, is no stranger to wildlife encounters. However, this incident highlights the growing challenges posed by climate change and its impact on Arctic predators.
Authorities continue to monitor the area to ensure residents remain safe from further bear encounters.
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