Wildlife

As you visit Waterton Lakes National Park, you share responsibility with Parks Canada and residents for respecting the park and the wildlife that lives here.

 Wildlife safety in Waterton

Bears

Plains bison

Birds

Reptiles and amphibians

Carnivores

Small mammals

Human-wildlife coexistence

Ungulates

Invertebrates

Bats

No other national park in Canada protects so much wildlife within such a small area. In just 505 km² (195 mi²), Waterton has over 250 species of birds, more than 60 species of mammals, 24 species of fish, ten species of reptiles and amphibians, as well as thousands of species of insects, arthropods and other invertebrates.

This incredible diversity partly results from the overlap of habitats found in the park, where the mountains meet the prairies. Like plants, animals are affected by environmental influences such as landforms, climate and the availability of food sources and water.

 Keep wildlife safe: 10 tips for respecting wildlife

Human-wildlife coexistence

Like other national parks in the Rocky Mountains, Waterton has plenty of built infrastructure and high visitation. Parks Canada uses a variety of measures to promote human-wildlife coexistence here.

Observing wildlife in their natural habitat is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to treat wildlife with the respect they deserve and need to survive.

What do we do to promote coexistence?

The “Bare” Campsite Program: Wildlife are experts at finding their own food sources, they don’t need ours. Human food kills wildlife. Parks Canada staff respond to hundreds of human-wildlife incidents each year that involve human food or garbage that is left unattended. We need the cooperation of all visitors to ensure wildlife do not access human food, garbage or other natural attractants.

 Learn more about “Bare” Campsites

 Camping in Waterton Lakes National Park

Education through interpretation: An exciting variety of presentations, activities and guided hikes are offered by interpreters throughout the summer. Check out our free daily programs for opportunities to learn about wildlife coexistence, species at risk, ecology, and more!

Warnings and closures: Parks Canada staff may close areas like trails and campgrounds periodically to prevent human-wildlife conflicts. Under the Canada National Parks Act, there are regulations to protect both wildlife and people.

These closures serve two purposes:

• Allowing wildlife undisturbed access to areas important to them, like feeding areas, den sites, and other seasonally important areas
• Keeping humans out of areas where there is an increased risk of human-wildlife conflict

 Current closures, warnings, and advisories in Waterton Lakes National Park

What can you do to promote coexistence?

• Report all cougar, wolf, and bear sightings to Parks Dispatch at 1-888-927-3367
• Don’t stare, scare! Consider not stopping to take a picture and help reinforce a natural, healthy wariness of humans
• Make noise, act big, and do not run
• Always keep dogs on leash and under your physical control
• Hike in groups and keep children close
• Give wildlife space! Create and maintain distance from all wildlife