The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Manitoba Conservation Minister Stan Struthers and Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz have announced that the sand-coloured black bear cub observed along PR 60 or the 'Easterville Highway' has a new home at the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg. The action is being taken in the best interests of the cub's future, as the mother bear was struck and killed by a vehicle the night of July 11 in the area where she had been fed by people. Highway travellers were feeding the black bear female and its cub and the bears became conditioned to humans and human food. It is believed this activity contributed directly to the adult bear's death. "The cub's future was quite uncertain as her chances of survival on her own in her birth-range or in a more remote location were dismal," said Struthers. "Thanks to the Assiniboine Park Zoo making one-time special arrangements, she has a new home and a bright future." "I am very pleased the Assiniboine Park Zoo is able to help the province find a permanent home for this unique gift of nature," said Katz. "Zoo staff have worked quickly to make arrangements to accommodate this cub and ensure a healthy future for her." The cub, weighing approximately 16 kilograms, was transferred to the zoo animal hospital and given a clean bill of health following a medical examination. Zoo officials have prepared a display area for the cub and, when she matures, the sand-coloured bear will be introduced into the general black bear population at the zoo. The black bear cub's rare sand-coloured fur is beginning to darken and may eventually take on the full black bear colour as it matures. Black bears have been known to go through colour phases such as shades of cinnamon, honey or brown, as well as black. The Chemawawin Cree Nation (Easterville) was contacted regarding the plan for the bear's future and supports the province's action. Bears hold spiritual and cultural significance for the Cree community. "Manitoba has a healthy black bear population, and we need to ensure that it is properly managed to remain a part of our heritage," said Struthers. "People need to remember that the bear is a wild animal and must be respected."
