The wilderness environment in British Columbia,
Canada consists of lush forests, clean lakes, raging rivers
and deep blue oceans.
The same environment creates some of Canada’s best
wildlife viewing opportunities and sightseeing tours.
Much of the wildlife in BC, Canada is protected.
Some are heavily protected because they are
endangered species while others are somewhat
protected because of the imposed restrictions on
hunting seasons.
Although, many would agree protection of our BC
wildlife could be allot better.
Protection efforts has enabled some of the wildlife in
British Columbia to make a recovery and claim back
some of their old territories.
But sadly enough, some of the protected wildlife are so
low in numbers that wildlife sanctuaries were created
around the province to protect them.
The mild climates in BC, the vast remote wilderness
regions and the efforts by some communities not to
encroach on wildlife territory has enabled some species
to thrive in their natural environment.
Wildlife sightseeing tours are one of the more popular
activities in British Columbia enjoyed by visitors.
A self guided tour enjoying an outdoor activity like hiking,
kayaking, scuba diving, fishing or canoeing can often
provide some great wildlife viewing opportunities.
A guided tour with a local tour company is the best way
to
view some of our most popular wildlife like
Often, the best wildlife viewing opportunity is one we
are not prepared for.
Case in point. Often when driving the highways in BC,
especially around North Vancouver Island, North BC,
Whistler and in the Kootenays wildlife can spotted on
the side of the road.
There are over 500,000 animals (2001) killed on our
major highways a year.
Some precautions that have been put in place to
prevent this injustice to our wildlife includes highway
lighting, signs, fencing, wildlife over and under passes,
repellents, noisemakers, driver education and reflectors.
The best precaution to prevent collisions with wildlife is
slowing down and staying alert while traveling our
remote BC highways.
Some of the best wildlife experiences are with a guided
tour company.
Tours range in comfort, duration and transportation.
There are tours aboard boats, 4X4s, zodiacs, ATVs,
floatplanes, helicopters and on foot.
Some tours include accommodations, guides & meals
so do your research and pick your comfort level.
The availability of wildlife does depend on the seasons.
Some wildlife hibernate during the winter – hidden out
of sight.
While others migrate to warmer climates and far-away
feeding and breeding grounds.
Wildlife can appear tame, but do not be fooled, they are
unpredictable and dangerous.
The larger wildlife can be aggressive.
It is against the law to feed wildlife.
And it is against common sense to feed the wildlife.
Please always maintain a distance of 50 metres
(150 feet) away
.
Thank you for planning your wildlife sightseeing tours
with us on our BCeh.com Travel Planning Network
CHERYL YOUNG, REALTOR AND BLOGGER
SAANICH PENINSULA REALTY
SIDNEY B.C.
