Though it is a large metropolitan city, wildlife thrives in Vancouver’s countless green spaces and parks.
The city lies between mountains and ocean and shares its space with the many natural inhabitants. Ducks, birds, geese and countless squirrels and chipmunks live here. Larger species including racoons, skunks and the occasional coyote can sometimes also be seen.
For those looking to escape the city for a few hours, whale watching and marine wildlife tours depart or pick up from various locations in and around the city.
For wildlife experiences close to downtown, Vancouver’s famous parks and seaside strolls are usually just minutes away.
Wildlife in Vancouver’s Parks
The many urban parks in Vancouver are home to large numbers of small mammals including chipmunks, squirrels and raccoons. They can often be seen while walking the trails and paths.
Stanley Park
Wildlife thrives in this urban oasis surrounded by ocean and old-growth forests. Thousands of critters live in the park’s forest, lagoon, lakes and seaside. Keep eyes open around Lost Lagoon. Swans, ducks, geese and other waterfowl thrive here as well.
Burnaby Lake Nature Park
This is a prime area for nature walks and wildlife viewing. Located a short distance from downtown Vancouver, this urban lake offers outstanding bird watching. Paddle a canoe and watch for ducks, beaver and waterfowl, or visit the nature interpretive center.
Wildlife Viewing along Seawall and Beaches
A walk along Vancouver's many beaches and seawalls is sure to provide a variety of wildlife sightings.
Stanley Park Seawall
Watch for birds nesting in the cliffs along the seawall, or Harbour seals along the shoreline.
West Vancouver Seawall
As cruises ships pass under Lions Gate Bridge, look for seabirds, eagles and other small mammals along this scenic stroll. The mouth of the Capilano River is the beginning of the salmon’s journey to the Capilano Salmon Hatchery, so keep eyes peeled for these iconic fish.
False Creek
Walking anywhere along this meandering foreshore is a treat in itself. Watch the waters for diving cormorants and harbour seals. Marine life can also be seen from the small passenger ferries that ply the waters between the shores of False Creek.
Located in
Stanley Park an easy walk from downtown, the
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre is dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life.
Wildlife viewing experiences include "Animal Encounters", where visitors can get up close and hands-on with a beluga whale, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Steller sea lion and sea otters. Take a stream tour and learn about the life cycle of Pacific salmon or visit the kids' favourite display - the hands-on touch pools.
There are more than 70,000 aquatic creatures here, representing more than 800 species, and some fascinating exhibits.
Located about a half-hour drive from downtown vancouver, the
Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife is a conservation, education and research centre that also serves as the home to an array of wildlife native to the province.
The centre is now home to two orphaned grizzly bears and several grey wolves. The bears can be seen roaming their 5-acre mountaintop habitat, while the grey wolves live in a separate protected area at the base of the mountain.
Learn more about
bear watching and bear safety,
whale watching and
birdwatching in Vancouver.
For wildlife viewing tips and practical points and safety see the
BC wildlife viewing page.