Waterton’s Wildlife

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.

If you love wildlife viewing, September 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 majestic 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…

Be Bear Aware

• When hiking in bear country, make sure to announce your presence to wildlife by talking loudly, singing or clapping.

• 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. 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 day, plan to go 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.

Wildlife Safety Tips

The abundance of wildlife is one of Waterton’s biggest draws. However, it is important that we keep the ‘Wild’ in Wildlife. We have a big role to play in helping to keep wildlife safe. For your own health and safety, please keep the following in mind:

Do not feed the animals: Many animals may seem tame, but feeding them endangers yourself, the animal, and other visitors. Animals become aggressive when looking for handouts (even the smallest critters, such as squirrels). It is also illegal in accordance with the Canada National Parks Act.

Store food safely: Keep food in your vehicle or out of reach of animals. Just leaving it in a cooler isn’t good enough.

Keep pets on a lead: It is illegal to have pets off-leash in a national park. Some wild animals will demonstrate aggressive behavior towards pets, especially dogs.

Keep your distance: Although it’s tempting to get close to wildlife for a better look, or a selfie, this action disturbs the animal, and in many cases, they become aggressive and dangerous. It is recommended to stay at least 30 m (100 ft) away from large mammals – and even farther away from bears.

Drive carefully: The most common cause of premature death for large mammals is being hit by vehicles. If you spot wildlife while driving, pull your vehicle fully onto the shoulder of the road to avoid being hit by other vehicles. For your own safety, and the safety of the animal, please remain in your vehicle, especially if you see a bear or a bull elk.

Consult Parks Canada for more wildlife viewing and safety tips: parkscanada.gc.ca/waterton-wildlife