A skier who was injured by a polar bear in Nunavut's remote Auyuittuq National Park on April 24 was quickly released from medical care, but Parks Canada staff euthanized the bear responsible for the attack.

After first aid was administered to the injured park visitor, that individual and "other parties" were transported to the Pangnirtung Health Centre by snowmobile. Poor visibility from a low cloud ceiling made it too dangerous to dispatch a rescue helicopter.  

At the health centre, the injured skier was assessed, treated and released, Parks Canada stated on April 28, but didn't specify the nature of the injuries. 

The bear was killed to "ensure public safety," reads a news release circulated by Margaret Friesen, external relations manager for Parks Canada's Nunavut Field Unit.

The predator's remains were turned over to the Pangnirtung Hunters and Trappers Organization, with support from the Government of Nunavut, in accordance with the Inuit impact and benefit agreement for Auyuittuq National Park.   

"Parks Canada takes action to promote coexistence between people and wildlife," the agency stated. "All visitors to Auyuittuq National Park must attend a mandatory orientation about the unique challenges of the Arctic environment, emphasizing self-reliance to ensure a safe visit. Polar bear orientation is delivered to visitors before entering the park. The visitors received all the necessary training prior to the incident. Polar bear attacks are extremely rare, and always possible throughout Nunavut."

As the investigation into this incident is ongoing, no further information will be released at this time, Parks Canada added.