Polar Bear Gets More Protection In Ontario

For Immediate Release
August 11, 2009

Polar Bear Gets More Protection In Ontario
McGuinty Government Implements Scientific Committee’s Findings

NEWS

Greater protection for the province’s polar bears is among the changes to be made to the list of Ontario’s species at risk.

The province is acting on a report from the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario to add 10 species, remove one species, and reclassify eight species on the Species at Risk in Ontario list.

Changes to the list will include:

• Re-classifying Ontario’s population of polar bears to threatened from special concern
• Adding two birds – chimney swift and whip-poor-will – as threatened species
• Re-classifying the bald eagle as special concern throughout the province.

All species newly designated as endangered or threatened are automatically protected, along with their habitat, under the terms of Ontario’s Endangered Species Act, 2007.

QUOTE

“I’m proud of the work we’re doing to protect and recover our most vulnerable species and their habitats.  Our goal is to reverse the rate of species decline in Ontario and ensure future generations enjoy and benefit from a healthy and diverse natural environment.” 
      – Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield

QUICK FACTS

• Species can be classified as extinct, extirpated, endangered, threatened or special concern.
• Ontario is home to more than 30,000 species, of which close to 200 are currently identified as being at risk.
• The number of polar bears in Ontario has remained relatively stable over the last 20 years; however, their body condition and survival rates have declined.
• Ontario’s new Endangered Species Act took effect on June 30, 2008, making the province a North American leader in species at risk protection and recovery.

LEARN MORE

• Read the information notice regarding changes to the Species at Risk in Ontario list on the Environmental Registry, Registry Number 010-7360.
• Learn how you can help protect species at risk in Ontario.

For More Information

Ivan Langrish, Minister’s Office, 416-314-2212

Media Desk, Communications Services Branch, 416-314-2106

General Enquiries

Natural Resources Information Centre
1-800-667-1940
TTY 1-866-686-6072 (Hearing Impaired)