Spotting a moose on a quiet road or hearing coyotes call at night isn’t unusual in Canada. In fact, these moments are part of what makes living here so memorable.
With so many forests, lakes, and open spaces, wildlife regularly crosses paths with people, sometimes in unexpected places like city parks or even backyards.
Most of the time, these animals prefer to avoid us, but knowing how to act when they don’t can prevent accidents and keep both sides safe. Being prepared means enjoying the experience of seeing wildlife without putting yourself, or them, at risk.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Wildlife behaviour can vary greatly depending on species, location, and situation.
1. Black Bears
These powerful omnivores are found in every province except Prince Edward Island. They’re naturally wary of humans but can become bold when searching for food.
If you spot a black bear, remain calm and avoid running. Make yourself look larger by raising your arms, and speak in a firm, loud voice. Back away slowly while maintaining eye contact.
Store food properly when camping, and carry bear spray in bear country. Remember: most bears want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them.
2. White-Tailed Deer
Graceful and abundant, these medium-sized deer have adapted remarkably well to human development. You’ll spot their distinctive white tails flashing as they bound away through fields and forests.
The biggest risk comes on roadways, especially at dawn and dusk when visibility is poor. Slow down in areas with deer crossing signs and scan roadsides carefully.
Never approach fawns that appear abandoned, mother deer often leave them hidden while foraging nearby. Keep dogs leashed in areas where deer are common.
3. Canada Geese
Our namesake birds have thrived in urban environments, often becoming year-round residents in parks and golf courses. Their distinctive honking and V-formations are quintessentially Canadian.
During nesting season (March to June), geese become fiercely territorial. Give wide berth to nesting pairs and families with goslings. If a goose lowers its head and hisses, you’re too close.
Never feed geese, it creates dependency and can lead to aggressive behavior. Watch your step in goose territory; their droppings can create slippery hazards.
4. Coyotes
Masters of adaptation, coyotes have expanded their range across Canada, even making homes in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Their howls and yips at dusk often surprise urban residents who don’t realize these clever canines are nearby.
Should you encounter a coyote, appear large and intimidating. Wave arms, make noise, and maintain eye contact while backing away slowly.
Keep pets leashed in coyote territory and never leave food outside. Teach children to respect these wild animals from a distance.
5. Moose
North America’s largest deer species commands respect with adults standing 2 meters tall at the shoulder. Despite their imposing size, moose typically mind their own business browsing on aquatic plants and tree foliage.
Danger arises when drivers collide with these massive animals on highways, especially in low light. If hiking and you spot a moose, give it tremendous space, at least 15-20 meters.
Watch for warning signs: laid-back ears, raised hackles, or stomping hooves mean retreat immediately. Bull moose are particularly unpredictable during autumn rutting season.
6. Raccoons
Those distinctive masked faces and dexterous paws make raccoons both adorable and troublesome visitors. Urban raccoons have become remarkably bold, figuring out complex latches and containers in their quest for food.
Secure garbage bins with bungee cords or weights and never intentionally feed these clever omnivores. If cornered, raccoons can become aggressive, so give them escape routes during chance encounters.
Raccoons can carry rabies and roundworm, so keep pets away from them and their droppings. Appreciate these intelligent animals from a respectful distance.
7. Beavers
Our national animal transforms landscapes with remarkable engineering skills. Spotting a beaver’s dome-shaped lodge or impressive dam is always a highlight of time spent near Canadian waterways.
Beavers are generally shy and prefer to avoid humans, often slapping their tails on water as a warning before diving to safety. Trouble only arises when humans or dogs approach too closely to active lodges.
Keep dogs from swimming near beaver homes, as these rodents will defend their territory with powerful teeth. Admire their handiwork from shore instead of disturbing their aquatic domain.
8. Porcupine
With a slow, waddling gait, the porcupine is a creature of curiosity. These nocturnal animals are often found gnawing on tree bark or climbing trees. Their quills are their best defense, deterring potential predators.
Exercise caution when you encounter a porcupine. Avoid sudden movements, as a startled porcupine might release its quills in self-defense. Keep pets on a leash and at a distance to prevent unwanted quill encounters.
