BEAR SIGHTING ON KAWEHNO:KE – FRIDAY, OCT. 11TH UPDATE 

COMMUNITY NOTICE 

For Immediate Release: 

Kentenha/October 11, 2024 

The Akwesasne Mohawk Police are continuing to advise the community to be aware of a black bear that remains on Kawehno:ke (Cornwall Island). While the last sighting reported was on Thursday, Oct. 10th, we believe the bear is still in the area as of Friday, Oct. 11th. The MCA Environment Program and Ministry of Natural Resources have set a bear trap in order to safely relocate the bear.   

The bear appears injured in the most recent footage. We are asking the community to refrain from hunting the bear.  While hunting is a part of our culture, the bear’s visit to our territory has created strong emotions in the community and a reminder of our role in the natural world. It is a significant event when a bear makes its way through our territory and ensures we continue to be a part of the natural migration routes of animals. Let’s allow the bear to move on (or to be moved) and appreciate the symbolism of its visit.  

AMPS is continuing to ask for sightings of the bear to be reported along with security footage you may have of the bear. Report sightings to AMPS Central Dispatch at 613-575-2000.  

If you do encounter the bear: 

·        Report the sighting to AMPS Central Dispatch at 613-575-2000. 

·        Do not approach. 

·        Be loud – bang pots and pans, blow an air horn or whistle. 

·        Calmly create a safe distance between you and the bear. 

·        Keep children and pets inside. 

·        Lock vehicle doors as bears are skilled at entering vehicles. 

·        Keep lighting on around the home to deter the bear. 

·        Remove food sources. 

·        Do not interrupt/interfere a bear from feeding as this can cause the bear to become aggressive. 

The bear is likely traveling through, swimming from island to island.  Do not bother the bear and the bear will move on.