Discovering Alberta’s Wildlife
Alberta, Canada is a vast and diverse province that is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the prairies and boreal forests, Alberta’s diverse landscapes support a wealth of animal life. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a wildlife photographer, or simply a curious traveler, exploring Alberta’s wildlife is an unforgettable experience.
With over 600 species of vertebrates and thousands of invertebrates, Alberta’s wildlife is diverse and plentiful. This article explores some of the most iconic and interesting wildlife species found in the province.
Mammals: The Largest and Most Iconic
Alberta is known for its large and iconic mammal species, including grizzly bears, black bears, cougars, moose, elk, and bison. These majestic animals can be found roaming the Rocky Mountains, the boreal forests, and the prairies. Other common mammal species in the province include deer, coyotes, wolves, lynx, mountain goats, and big horn sheep.
Alberta is also home to several threatened and endangered mammal species, including the woodland caribou and the swift fox. These species are protected under provincial and federal legislation, and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect their habitats and populations.
Birds: From Majestic Raptors to Tiny Hummingbirds
Alberta’s skies are filled with a diverse range of bird species, from majestic raptors like eagles and hawks to tiny hummingbirds and songbirds. The province is an important breeding ground for several bird species, including the endangered whooping crane, the sharp-tailed grouse, and the greater sage-grouse.
Other common bird species in Alberta include ducks, geese, swans, loons, grebes, herons, owls, woodpeckers, and finches. Alberta is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, who come to see the many migratory bird species that pass through the province on their way to and from their breeding grounds.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Cold-Blooded Survivors
Alberta’s cold and sometimes harsh climate is not ideal for reptiles and amphibians, but the province still supports a variety of these species. Common reptile species in Alberta include the prairie rattlesnake, the western painted turtle, and several species of garter snakes.
Amphibians in Alberta include several species of frogs, toads, and salamanders, including the boreal chorus frog and the endangered northern leopard frog. These species are adapted to surviving in Alberta’s cooler temperatures and shorter growing season.
Fish: Thriving in the Rivers and Lakes
Alberta’s rivers and lakes are home to a diverse range of fish species, including several species of trout, salmon, pike, walleye, and whitefish. The province’s cold and clear waters have made it a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, who come to catch the elusive rainbow trout and brown trout.
Alberta also has several threatened and endangered fish species, including the bull trout and the westslope cutthroat trout. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these species and their habitats.
Insects: The Unsung Heroes of Alberta’s Ecosystems
Insects may be small, but they play a crucial role in Alberta’s ecosystems. Common insect species in the province include bees, butterflies, moths, ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. These species are important pollinators, decomposers, and food sources for other wildlife.
Alberta is also home to several invasive insect species, including the mountain pine beetle, which has caused extensive damage to the province’s forests in recent years.
Arachnids: Spiders and Scorpions of the Prairies
Arachnids are another group of small but important animals in Alberta’s ecosystems. Common arachnid species in the province include spiders, scorpions, and ticks. Although many people fear spiders and scorpions, these species play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and are an important food source for other wildlife.
Mollusks: Snails, Slugs, and Clams
Mollusks are not often thought of as wildlife, but they play a vital role in Alberta’s ecosystems. Common mollusk species in the province include snails, slugs, and clams. These species help to break down organic matter and are an important food source for other wildlife.
Crustaceans: Crayfish and Shrimp in the Streams
Alberta’s streams and rivers are home to several species of crustaceans, including crayfish and shrimp. These species are important food sources for fish and other wildlife, and they help to maintain a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
Echinoderms: Starfish and Sea Urchins on the Coast
Although Alberta is not a coastal province, it is still home to several species of echinoderms, including starfish and sea urchins. These species can be found in the intertidal zones along the coast of British Columbia and are an important part of the coastal ecosystem.
Cnidarians: Jellyfish and Anemones in the Waters
Finally, Alberta’s waters are home to several species of cnidarians, including jellyfish and anemones. These species are important food sources for several fish species and are a fascinating sight for snorkelers and scuba divers.
Conclusion: Alberta’s Wildlife Diversity
From the iconic mammals of the Rocky Mountains to the tiny insects and mollusks that play a vital role in the province’s ecosystems, Alberta’s wildlife is diverse, fascinating, and worthy of exploration. Whether you are a resident or a visitor to the province, taking the time to discover Alberta’s wildlife is an unforgettable experience.
