Polar Bears and People Collide
Churchill, Canada, located on the edge of Hudson Bay, is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” Every autumn, polar bears migrate through the town, creating frequent and sometimes dangerous encounters between humans and the animals.
A Jail for Bears
To handle troublesome bears, Churchill established a holding facility in the 1980s, often called the “polar bear jail.” The facility, a repurposed aircraft hangar, houses bears that wander too close to town. It prevents harm to both residents and the animals.
How It Works
Bears caught near town are sedated, tagged, and placed in the facility. They are held for up to 30 days without food to discourage repeat offenses. After their stay, the bears are relocated by helicopter or truck to areas farther from Churchill.
A Lasting Impact
The jail holds up to 30 bears at a time and has become a model for managing human-wildlife conflicts. The system reduces risks to both species, ensuring the safety of Churchill’s residents and its seasonal polar bear visitors.
In Churchill, Canada, polar bears wandering into town each autumn are a common sight, earning it the nickname Polar Bear Capital of the World. To handle these encounters safely, Churchill created a unique polar bear jail to protect both its residents and the bears.
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