Given Mackenzie's proximity to forestland and mountains, opportunities to view wildlife here abound.
Watch for moose, deer, grizzly and black bears, lynx, wolverines and wolves all living in the region. Animals inhabiting higher elevations, alpine and sub-alpine areas include caribou, mountain goats and Stone's sheep.
Mackenzie is also a good bird watching destination, with the Mackenzie Nature Observatory located approximately 14km/8.7mi from town. While in the area, keep an eye to the skies for eagles, hawks and osprey. Ospreys are particularly found around fish-bearing rivers and lakes, and will dive into the water for prey. A complete list of animals and fish found in the Williston Lake watershed is available on the BC Hydro website.
Nearby parks offer camping opportunities. There are rustic sites available at the lake-dotted Heather-Dina Lakes Provincial Park and more developed sites at Tudyah Lake Provincial Park.
Read More
Migration and Environmental Studies
Wildlife in the Mackenzie region are challenged by changes in their migration routes and loss of habitat caused by the creation of Williston Lake in 1967. BC Hydro and the BC Government initiated the Peace Williston Fish and Wildlife Conservation Program to address and reduce impacts. Studies have been funded to address a number of large and small animals including Stone's sheep, caribou and mountain goats. Provincially, caribou populations are considered threatened, and in the Williston Lake area woodland caribou herds are being studied.
Wildlife and Road Safety
Many wildlife sightings are possible while driving to Mackenzie along Highway 39, and Highway 97 in the Pine Pass. It is important to be aware of road safety and to watch for animals all times, especially at dusk and dawn as this is often when animals are at roadsides. As well, when viewing wildlife from a vehicle, it is best to pull over to the side of the road while remaining inside the vehicle.
Practical Points & Safety
- This is the north, so be prepared with bug spray for biting bugs, especially around wetlands, lakes and rivers.
- To avoid unsafe wildlife encounters and to ensure that wildlife do not become habituated to people, make noise while hiking along trails, especially in forested areas; pack away any waste and food (locking it in a car with closed windows is a good option); use bear-proof waste receptacles where available; and do not feed any of the animals.
Read Less