Wildlife Viewing

Hints about Wildlife Viewing

• Treat wildlife with respect. Always keep a safe distance and use binoculars.
• Never leave your car or approach a wild animal under any circumstances.
• Never attempt to feed or touch a wild animal.
• Do not bring dogs or other pets to wildlife sighting areas.
• Avoid nesting sites and dens of wild animals.
• In autumn avoid areas and trails near salmon streams.
• When hiking make noise to avoid surprise encounters.
• Pay attention to local signage advising of bears in the area.

• Check out the cliffs above Firvale and the area around Assanany Creek, west of Firvale to spot mountain goats.
• During spring and early summer, drive high in the alpine regions on forest service roads to spot black and grizzly bears before they migrate to the Valley floor for salmon season.
• In the fall the river banks and coastal areas that contain salmon are frequented by bears.
• During July and August, from the highway bridges at stream crossings between Bella Coola and Hagensborg watch and revel in the phenomenal spawning process of the Chum and Pink salmon.
  
• In spring, take a guided tour or hire a boat to explore the wildlife-rich estuary and keep alert for bears on the shoreline, soaring eagles, a variety of waterfowl and seals.
• Harbour seals, Bald eagles and Blue heron are commonly seen at Clayton Falls Recreation Park (2 km west of the public dock).
• For the best wildlife viewing, hire a guide.  Experienced guides know the areas frequented by wild animals during the different seasons and make you aware of any hazards.