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Animals of the Pacific Northwest
The B.C. coastal region boasts a wide diversity of animals, both land based and aquatic, including mammals, reptiles, insects, birds & fish.
Hi, l am Bud Logan, owner of gohiking.ca, its a web site my boys, Robert and Forrest, and l have been building to showcase the natural wonders of the BC coastal region. This is the most beautiful area in the world, mountains that spring from the sea and go straight to the sky, rivers, lakes and waterfalls that can rival any and beaches of soft white sand that quite often, you are the only ones there. Our coast is a dive destination with its cold and clear water that is so full of life and color that it can take your breath away. The diversity of our land and sea animals is incredible. Our residents are friendly and always willing to lend a hand or give directions to a traveler. So come on, take a trip and visit the BC coastal region. You will not regret it.
The birds that inhabit or visit the region are numerous in both variety and quantity. Photographing them is a popular pastime, and getting that photo you’ve been striving for, can be quite satisfying! Bird watching is very popular here and there are many tours that will take you out birding.
There is something very calming about walking along an estuary or mountain trail, on the lookout for birds. My family and l have always enjoyed birding and hiking – good for your health and feeds your soul.
Fishing on the coast is first class. Our waters teem with both fresh &  saltwater varieties, and expert guides can offer you the fishing experience of a lifetime!
Coastal B.C. has a remarkable range of land based animals. Larger varieties include our impressive elk, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and cougars. Our smaller species are no less fascinating, and encompass interesting weasels, minks, beavers, squirrels, and many types of bats.
Some fascinating and very rare animals inhabit our region, including the Vancouver Island marmot, with only 200 in number. The Vancouver Island wolverine, however, hasn’t been sighted for a few decades… I hope there are still a few left in our high country.
Marine Animals
Many wild & varied marine animals inhabit the waters along the coast. One can see dolphins, killer whales, grey whales, sea turtles, humpback whales, & other extraordinary species in our waters. Naturalists, biologists, whale watchers, & beachcombers travel here from afar to enjoy the super natural wonders of B.C.’s stunning coast lines and oceans.
Divers throng to revel in our clear, luxuriant underwater wonderland, with its fascinating plant & animal life. Recognized as one of the world’s great dive destinations! The waters along our coast contain life giving nutrients that sustain a vast array of marine life. Our seas are filled with spectacular color & character, its quite amazing. You can get acquainted with the ocean by visiting any beach and exploring the life within its tidal pools.
Spiders Of BC
Almost half the spider species known to Canada are found in BC. Spiders are ferocious creatures living within a matriarchal society. Ruled by females, males are sometimes little more than just a meal! I have always enjoyed learning about our fascinating spiders. Studies of these creatures have mostly been conducted by a few dedicated amateurs. Recently, a team from the Museum of BC has been investigating our spiders to learn more about them and their interesting habits.
Snails and slugs inhabit most parts of the coast: from alpine meadows to coniferous forests, and from river lowlands to urban parks & gardens. They are members of the animal group known as gastropods.
Snails and slugs live in our oceans, fresh water lakes, rivers, and on land. These creatures have a distinct head with eyes on stalks, and a broad flat foot used for locomotion. B.C. is home to many varieties of snails and slugs – it’s worthwhile exploring them!
To learn more about the animals in your area, look for tracks they have left behind to help identify them. Their scat can also be observed to determine the types of food they eat.
So get out, and take a walk on the wild side, to see what animals are found in your area. Bring along a camera – you might just get that shot you’ve been looking for!
When hiking the back country, remember: take only pictures, leave only footprints.