Wildlife in New Brunswick transforms a journey through the province's diverse landscapes into more than just a feast for the eyes; it's a chance to encounter a vibrant array of creatures that call this place home. From majestic mammals to elusive birds, the region is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts. Prepare to be captivated by nature's splendor and discover how to fully embrace these wildlife encounters.
Wildlife Gems in New Brunswick
New Brunswick's varied ecosystems provide habitats for an impressive range of animals. Whether you're hiking through dense forests, meandering along serene waterways, or gazing across coastal cliffs, keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of wildlife in New Brunswick. Here are 13 animals to look out for.
1. White-tailed Deer
The white-tailed deer in New Brunswick is a key species in local ecosystems, adapting to diverse habitats from forests to urban fringes. With distinctive white underparts and tail, they are important for hunting and wildlife watching. Populations fluctuate due to predation, climate, and human impacts.
FUN FACT: Did you know that the White-tailed Deer can communicate with 13 different sounds?
2. Moose
New Brunswick's moose population, one of the densest in southern Canada, ranges between 20,000 to 30,000. These solitary animals face threats from habitat loss and road accidents. Conservation efforts include regulated hunting and ongoing research, while moose also hold cultural significance and boost the local economy through tourism.
FUN FACT: A moose can dive 20 feet underwater and stay down there for a minute in order to eat vegetation.
3. Black Bears
Black bears are common animals in New Brunswick, especially in forested areas. These omnivores' diets vary seasonally, consuming fruits, nuts, and occasionally meat. With an estimated 17,000 bears, they play a crucial ecological role. Human-bear conflicts are rare but can occur, emphasizing the importance of responsible wildlife management.
FUN FACT: They may be large, but black bears can run up to 40kmph.
4. Red Foxes
The red fox is a versatile, cunning predator adapted to diverse habitats, from urban areas to dense forests. This wild animal in New Brunswick by its reddish-brown fur, bushy tail, and white underparts. Foxes are omnivorous, eating rodents, birds, and fruit. They play a key role in ecosystem balance.
FUN FACT: The Red Fox has fantastic hearing. It can even hear a mouse squeak from 100 metres away.
5. Coyotes
Coyotes are present in New Brunswick's rural and wilderness areas with populations reaching upwards of 15,000. They are known for their adaptability to different environments and can sometimes be heard howling at night. Did you know, the coyote can sound farther away than it is?
FUN FACT: Litters of coyote pups can range from a single offspring to as many as 19.
6. Snowshoe Hares
These animals in New Brunswick change their fur colour with the seasons, adapting to the snow-covered landscape in winter. They are a crucial prey species for various local predators including the red fox and coyote.
FUN FACT: Snowshoe Hares can reach speeds up to 45 km/h and can cover up to three metres in one hop.
7. Bald Eagles
As a majestic bird of prey, bald eagles can be spotted near bodies of water, particularly around coastal areas like the Bay of Fundy. Their impressive wingspan and distinctive white head make them easy to identify.
FUN FACT: When a bald eagle loses a feather on one wing, it will lose a feather on the other in order to keep its balance.
8. Ospreys
Also known as fish eagles, ospreys are skilled fishermen that can be observed hovering over shorelines of large lakes and rivers, ponds, and reservoirs before diving to catch fish. Like all birds of prey in New Brunswick, the osprey is protected.
FUN FACT: Ospreys have barbed pads on the soles of the their feet help them grip slippery fish.
9. Atlantic Puffins
On the isolated Machias Seal Island in the Bay of Fundy, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these charming seabirds. About 5,500 breeding pairs live there. Around New Brunswick nest in colonies from April to July on rocky cliffs and are known for their colourful beaks.
FUN FACT: A puffin’s beak changes colour during the year. In winter, the beak is grey, but in spring it becomes orange.
10. Seals
Various seal species, including harbour seals and grey seals, can be found along New Brunswick's coastlines. Seal-watching is a popular activity in some areas, especially Grand Manan Island. The best time to view seals is when the tide is low and the rocks are exposed.
FUN FACT: The Grey Seal is one of the rarest species of seal on Earth.
11. Whales
The Bay of Fundy, which borders New Brunswick, is a hotspot for whale-watching. Species like humpback whales, minke whales, and fin whales are frequently sighted here. For those eager to catch sight of whales on their journey, it's important to remember whale-watching season in the Bay of Fundy spans from June to October. Among them, August is the prime time for witnessing whales in action.
FUN FACT: Humpback whales can live for 80 to 90 years, just like humans.
12. Porcupines
Porcupines are nocturnal animals in New Brunswick that inhabit the province's forests and woodlands. When in a tree, a porcupine can resemble a squirrel's nest or a crow. Despite having their quills, the porcupine uses this defense mechanism as a last resort.
FUN FACT: While porcupines spend most of the time on the ground, they are good climbers and regularly climb trees in search of food
13. Bobcats
These elusive and solitary wildcats can be found in New Brunswick's northern forests, but spotting them can be quite rare due to their secretive nature. In 2016, New Brunswick trappers discovered what is believed to be one of only two black bobcats in the world. The other is located in Florida.
FUN FACT: Bobcats can communicate by urinating and depositing feces along travel routes.
Preparing for Your Wildlife Adventure
Exploring the wildlife in New Brunswick offers a thrilling experience, but it's crucial to place responsible and respectful interactions at the forefront. Whether you're a passionate photographer, a dedicated birdwatcher, or just someone who finds solace in the beauty of nature, the province's diverse wildlife is bound to create enduring memories. Always approach interactions with wildlife in New Brunswick carefully.
