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A caribou in Canada

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ICONIC CANADIAN WILDLIFE TO SEE ON YOUR GAP YEAR

Canada is a vast and diverse country and is home to an incredible array of wildlife. From the majestic mountains in the west to the icy tundra of the north there are countless opportunities for unforgettable wildlife encounters wherever your travels take you.

Grizzly Bear

Where to spot: Banff National Park, Alberta; Great Bear Rainforest British Columbia.

 

Why they’re special: Canada is home to roughly 25,000 grizzly bears and these powerful predators are a symbol of the Canadian wilderness. Witnessing a grizzly in its natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience.

Bears in Canada

Polar Bear

Where to spot: Churchill, Manitoba

 

Why they’re special: These magnificent creatures known as ‘Lords of the Arctic’ are perfectly adapted to the harsh Arctic environment. Seeing a polar bear on the tundra or out hunting for seals is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

A polar near in North Canada

Moose

Where to spot: Algonquin National Park, Ontario; Jasper National Park, Alberta

 

Why they’re special: An iconic symbol of Canada! The moose with its massive antlers and large size is a truly majestic sight. They are often seen browsing in the forest or along lakeshores.

A moose in a river in Canada

Orca

Where to spot: Vancouver Island, British Columbia

 

Why they’re special: These intelligent and social creatures are apex predators of the ocean. Witnessing a pod either hunting or playing is a thrilling experience.

A killer whale in the ocean in Canada

Caribou

Where to spot: Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories; Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia

 

Why they’re special: These migratory animals undertake incredible journeys across the Canadian landscape. Spotting a herd of Caribou on the move is a sight to behold.

A caribou in Canada

Bison

Where to spot: Elk Island National Park, Alberta

 

Why they’re special: Though bison may look bulky, they're surprisingly fast and agile. You can find them usually in north-western Canada, enjoying a diet of berries and grass.

A bison in a field in Canada

Beaver

Where to spot: Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland; Banff National Park, Alberta

 

Why they’re special: Beavers are the national symbol of Canada and are they world’s largest living rodent! Once hunted nearly to extinction for their luxurious fur, these remarkable creatures have staged a heart-warming comeback.

A beaver on a log in Canada

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Lanie Shand

Product Assistant

Lanie is a Product Assistant in our Kensington head office. Lanie has worked at Trailfinders since 2008 and has travelled to 62 countries. Her favourite destinations include Greece, Patagonia and Mexico.

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