Waterton’s Wildlife
Photos Courtesy of Terri Vidricaire
Waterton Lakes National Park, a wildlife-watcher’s paradise, is home to moose, bear, elk, deer, lynx and 57 other mammals, not to mention 250 species of birds – all in this 505 sq. km. protected area. And there’s ample opportunity to capture a photograph of these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Often the townsite and roadways will be congested with deer or big horn sheep and the odds are good that you’ll see ground squirrels scurrying by. When hiking, don’t be surprised if you come across fresh laid tracks, diggings, or scat indicating the recent presence of wildlife. Waterton supports an abundance of wildlife because of the four ecoregions within the park. Each ecoregion hosts unique plant life, which in turn, supports distinct wildlife. In addition, the park is located within close proximity to other well-managed areas each of which also provides a diverse habitat where an array of plants and animal can thrive. To celebrate this diversity, Waterton holds a Wildlife Festival each year, in September. If you love wildlife viewing, this is an ideal month to visit the park. Deer, elk and bighorn sheep mate in the fall, so they are looking their best; with antlers at peak growth and thick, shiny coats. This is also the time of year when you can hear the bugling of the bull elk and see their large harems or watch the head-butting tests of strength by bighorn sheep. Black bears are often seen feeding in berry patches in the lower valleys at this time of year too, but remember to… 50 | mywaterton.ca
Be Bear Aware • When hiking in bear country, make sure to announce your presence to the wildlife by talking loudly, singing or clapping within your group. • Hiking with four or more people is recommended. • If you do encounter a bear, stay calm and talk to the bear as you back away slowly. Do not turn your back. Remain in the group and attempt to make yourself appear bigger. Pick up your small children. Do not drop your backpack. Keep bear spray accessible and make sure you know how to use it. • In the unlikely event that you encounter a cougar or wolf, immediately pick up small children and pets and hold them closely. Make yourself as large as possible. Maintain eye contact and back away slowly. Do not run and do not play dead. Best Time of Day to View Wildlife Wildlife tend to be less active during the heat of the day, so plan to go exploring during the early morning hours, in the late afternoon, or early evening. Best Places to View Wildlife • Townsite: Bighorn sheep, deer and ground squirrels are commonly seen and typically stay still long enough for the camera, as long as you are shooting from a safe distance. • Park’s Grasslands: This distinct area is often referred to as “Where the Mountains Meet the Prairies”. It provides important range for elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer. • Mountain Trails: If you feel like you are being watched – you just might be! Small mammals, birds, deer, and bighorn sheep are commonly seen along mountain trails.
