Natural Resources says there was no bear attack on Halifax-area trail

Nova Scotia's Department of Natural Resources says an investigation has concluded there was no bear attack on a Halifax-area trail.

The department said Monday it was investigating an "unconfirmed bear attack" after someone was injured on Shearwater Flyer Trail in Cole Harbour.

Natural Resources said in a statement on Tuesday it set up an incident management team to investigate, including staff, conservation officers, a helicopter and local law enforcement.

"No confirming evidence was found at the scene," the statement said. "The August 26 incident on the Shearwater Flyer Trail in Cole Harbour was not a bear or wildlife attack."

The incident had closed a portion of the trail and bear traps were set. The department said a staff member remained on site throughout the night.

"The department cannot speculate on what may or may not have happened outside of a potential wildlife attack. Police would need to speak to how the person sustained injuries," the statement said.

Two vehicles from the Department of Natural Resources were parked outside the entrance to the Shearwater Flyer Trail on Monday. (Jeorge Sadi/CBC)

Emergency Health Services said in an email Monday that it responded to a call in the trail area and provided care to someone, but did not elaborate on the nature of their injuries.

Halifax RCMP did not immediately return a request for comment on Tuesday.

The department said traps were being removed Tuesday afternoon and that section of the trail was expected to open at 3 p.m.

Nova Scotia Tourism describes the Shearwater Flyer Trail as an 8.5-kilometre gravel trail that travels through forest and marsh areas and is popular with hikers, cyclists and bird-watchers.

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