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Published on January 25, 2026

Canadian Wildlife: Where to See Bears, Moose & Whales

Canada is a vast and wild country, home to some of the most iconic wildlife on the planet. From the towering Rockies to the pristine coastlines, opportunities abound to witness magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. Embark on an unforgettable journey to discover where you can encounter bears, moose, and whales across this incredible land.

Encountering Canada's Majestic Bears

Canada is one of the best places in the world to see bears, with both grizzly (brown) and black bear populations thriving. These powerful animals are an integral part of Canada's wilderness, and spotting them in the wild is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Black Bears

Black bears are the most common and widespread bear species in Canada, found in every province and territory except Prince Edward Island. They are highly adaptable, inhabiting forests, mountains, and even suburban areas. Prime viewing opportunities often occur in national and provincial parks, particularly during spring when they emerge from hibernation and in late summer/early autumn when they forage for berries.

  • Where to See Them:British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador offer excellent black bear viewing. Look for them along roadsides in forested areas, or near berry patches. National Parks such as Jasper, Banff, and Pacific Rim are reliable spots.
  • Best Time:May to October, with peak activity in early morning and late evening.

Grizzly Bears

Larger and more formidable than black bears, grizzly bears are primarily found in western and northern Canada. Their characteristic shoulder hump and dish-shaped face distinguish them. Grizzlies prefer open areas like alpine meadows, river valleys, and coastal regions, where they can feed on salmon, berries, and grasses.

  • Where to See Them:British Columbia is arguably the best place to see grizzlies, especially in the Great Bear Rainforest, Knight Inlet, and the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. Alberta's mountain parks, including Banff National Park (near Lake Louise) and Jasper National Park (around Maligne Lake and Mount Edith Cavell), also offer chances, particularly during the salmon run or when they graze in meadows. The area around Golden, BC, is also known for its grizzly populations.
  • Best Time:Late spring (May-June) when they emerge, and late summer/early autumn (August-September) during salmon runs.

Bear Safety Tip:Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear, and never approach one, especially cubs. If you encounter a bear, remain calm and back away slowly.

Spotting the Elusive Moose

The moose, with its impressive antlers and towering stature, is a symbol of Canada's boreal forests. These magnificent creatures are the largest members of the deer family and prefer marshy areas, dense forests, and near lakes or rivers where they can feed on aquatic vegetation.

  • Where to See Them:Moose are widespread across Canada's forested regions. Some of the most reliable places include:

    • Newfoundland and Labrador:Home to a thriving moose population, often seen along roadsides (especially at dawn and dusk) and in Gros Morne National Park.
    • Quebec:The vast wilderness of the Laurentian Mountains and Gaspésie National Park (part of which is near Forillon National Park Of Canada) are excellent for moose viewing.
    • Ontario:Algonquin Provincial Park is renowned for its moose sightings, particularly along Highway 60.
    • Alberta & British Columbia:While less dense than eastern provinces, moose can be found in the northern parts of Jasper and Banff National Parks, and in Kootenay National Park.
    • Yukon and Northwest Territories:The Dempster Highway offers chances to see moose in their remote northern habitat.
  • Best Time:Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times, as moose are crepuscular. Spring and early summer are also good when they seek out salt on roadsides and new vegetation.

Moose Fact:A bull moose's antlers can span up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) and weigh over 30 kg (66 lbs). They shed their antlers each winter and regrow them in the spring.

Witnessing Whales in Canada's Waters

Canada's extensive coastlines, both Pacific and Atlantic, along with its northern waters, provide critical habitats for a diverse array of whale species. Whale watching is a popular activity, offering incredible opportunities to see these gentle giants up close.

Pacific Coast (British Columbia)

The waters off British Columbia are famous for orcas (killer whales), but also host humpbacks, grey whales, and minke whales.

  • Where to See Them:The waters around Vancouver Island, especially the Johnstone Strait and the Gulf Islands (including areas near Salt Spring Island), are prime for orcas. Many tours depart from Victoria, Vancouver, and Tofino.
  • Best Time:Orcas are present year-round but peak from May to October. Grey whales migrate past the coast in spring (March-April) and fall (October-November). Humpbacks are common from June to October.

Atlantic Coast (Eastern Canada)

The nutrient-rich waters of the Atlantic provide feeding grounds for a spectacular variety of whales, including humpbacks, fin whales, minke whales, and the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

  • Where to See Them:
    • Bay of Fundy(New Brunswick & Nova Scotia):Known for its incredible tides and as a feeding ground for fin, minke, and humpback whales, and crucially, North Atlantic right whales. Tours often depart from St. Andrews, NB, and Digby, NS.
    • Newfoundland and Labrador:One of the best places in the world to see humpbacks, often feeding close to shore. Twillingate and St. John's are popular departure points. Icebergs can also be seen alongside whales here in early summer.
    • Quebec (St. Lawrence Estuary):The confluence of the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence River near Tadoussac is a unique spot to see belugas, fin, minke, and even blue whales.Forillon National Park Of Canada also offers coastal whale viewing opportunities.
  • Best Time:Typically May to October, with peak activity in July and August.

Arctic Waters (Northern Canada)

For a truly unique whale experience, the Arctic waters are home to belugas and narwhals.

  • Where to See Them:Nunavut is the primary destination. Belugas are often seen in the western Arctic, while narwhals (known for their long tusk) are found in the eastern Arctic. Expeditions to these remote areas are specialized.
  • Best Time:Summer months (July-August) when the ice breaks up.

Responsible Whale Watching:Choose ethical tour operators who adhere to strict guidelines for approaching whales, ensuring minimal disturbance to these magnificent animals and their habitat.

General Tips for Wildlife Viewing in Canada

To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife and ensure a safe, respectful experience:

  1. Go with a Guide:Local guides and certified tour operators have invaluable knowledge of animal behaviour and the best viewing locations.
  2. Respect Wildlife:Maintain a safe and respectful distance. Never feed wild animals, as it can harm their health and natural behaviours.
  3. Be Patient:Wildlife viewing requires patience. Animals are unpredictable, so be prepared to wait and observe quietly.
  4. Timing is Key:Dawn and dusk are often the best times for terrestrial animals, while whale migrations follow seasonal patterns.
  5. Dress Appropriately:Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially when venturing into remote areas.
  6. Leave No Trace:Pack out everything you pack in and minimize your impact on the environment.

Canada offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature and witness its incredible wildlife. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a memorable and responsible adventure seeing bears, moose, and whales in their natural Canadian homes.