Insights from Veteran Guide, Terry Elliott

By Maggie Cole

A Journey with Polar Bear Guide Terry Elliott

The wild and remote nature of the Hudson Bay coast is something few people understand as well as Terry Elliott. A seasoned polar bear guide with Churchill Wild, Terry has spent years leading guests through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes on Earth. His journey from city life to the rugged wilderness is not only inspiring but also a testament to the power of nature to transform lives.

A Journey Begun by Chance

Terry’s path to becoming a polar bear guide was as unexpected as the Arctic itself. Working for a wildlife viewing company in the Northwest Territories, he and his partner Andy crossed paths with Dennis Fast, a renowned guide for Churchill Wild. The encounter sparked a deep interest in polar bears, and when Dennis was set to retire, Andy was recommended for the job. Soon after, Terry followed suit. It was a chance meeting that would lead him to a lifelong passion.

Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters

Guiding in the Arctic has given Terry a front-row seat to some of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters. One that stands out is Scarbrow, a bear with a special connection to Terry from the very beginning. “He would come for walks with us and was very excited to see us every year,” Terry recalls. Another unforgettable experience involves the wolves at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, where witnessing their joyful family reunions left a lasting impression.

You can watch a short clip of the interaction below – Terry having a conversation with Scarbrow.

Terry spends his days with polar bears and other iconic Canadian wildlife while guiding safaris, but his favourite experiences are on the Barren Lands during Churchill Wild’s Arctic Safari. “Part of it is knowing how remote you are, how vulnerable you are,” Terry says. “It takes a few days of isolation, but then you get in tune with the place, and it’s a very primitive, very primordial feeling. You’re in a place where you can hear your heart beating. It touches you very deeply.”

Evolving with the Bears

Terry’s approach to guiding has evolved over the years, particularly in how he interacts with polar bears. “We used to sneak up on them!” he says, reflecting on his early days. Drawing on lessons learned from observing grizzlies, Terry and Andy adapted their techniques to better understand and anticipate the behaviour of polar bears. This ability to read the bears’ body language has been a game-changer, ensuring both the safety of the guests and the bears.

A Life Devoted to the Wilderness

During the guiding season, Terry works almost nonstop for five months. His days begin early as he checks for wildlife and helps develop the day’s itinerary. He leads excursions in the morning and afternoon and frequently gives evening presentations. His dedication doesn’t stop there—Terry periodically wakes during the night to rouse guests if the aurora borealis makes an appearance, ensuring they never miss the magic of the northern lights.

Terry credits his parents for instilling his love for the outdoors. His father took him camping and fishing, while his mother encouraged him to explore his passions, leading Terry to what he calls a “self-taught master’s degree in Life in the Arctic.”

Debunking Myths About Polar Bears

One of the most surprising insights Terry shares with guests is about the true nature of polar bears. Often perceived as ferocious man-eaters, Terry describes them instead as curious and intelligent animals. This revelation is just one of many that guests experience during their time in the Arctic, as Terry educates them about the delicate balance of life in this seemingly desolate landscape.

Mastering the Arctic Ecosystem

As a naturalist, Terry is deeply knowledgeable about the geography, geology, plants, birds, and wildlife of northern Manitoba. There’s not a plant at Seal River Heritage Lodge that Terry can’t identify; in fact, he has even discovered two species that were previously undocumented in the area. His keen observations and connection to the land allow him to share an unmatched understanding of the Arctic’s diverse ecosystem.

Emotional Connections and Lasting Impressions

For Terry, the most rewarding aspect of his job is witnessing the profound impact the Arctic has on his guests. “I know when we are doing it right when I see tears,” he says. For many, seeing a wild polar bear in its natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the emotions that surface during these encounters are powerful and unforgettable.

Challenges of the Arctic Wilderness

Guiding in such a remote and unpredictable environment comes with its own set of challenges. From being away from family for extended periods to managing the expectations of sometimes unprepared clients, the job is not without its difficulties. However, Terry wouldn’t trade it for anything. “I feel like I have the coolest job in the world,” he admits, marveling at how a city kid like himself ended up leading adventures in one of the world’s most extreme environments.

A Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society

In recognition of his contributions to educating the public about the Arctic and its wildlife, Terry was made a fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society in 2019. This honour underscores his dedication to sharing the wonders of the Arctic with others and his commitment to preserving this fragile ecosystem.

Conclusion

Terry Elliott’s story is one of transformation, passion, and a deep connection to the natural world. Through his eyes, Churchill Wild guests gain not just a glimpse of the Arctic, but an appreciation for its beauty and complexity. For Terry, every day in the Arctic is a reminder of the incredible journey that brought him there, and the privilege of sharing it with others.

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