Nature and Wildlife in Arctic Canada
Arctic Canada is a land of breathtaking landscapes and remarkable wildlife. This remote region, with its expansive tundra, icy waters, and towering glaciers, is home to some of the most resilient species on Earth.
In a place where temperatures can drop well below freezing, the animals here have adapted in incredible ways. Whether you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Arctic fox or watch a pod of narwhals surface through the icy waters, Arctic Canada offers a window into a world where nature reigns in its purest form.
Facts about Nature and Wildlife in Arctic Canada
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What Land Mammals Live in Arctic Canada?
Despite its harsh environment, Arctic Canada is home to a variety of land mammals. The Arctic fox is one of the most well-known animals in the region, with its thick fur and cunning hunting abilities that allow it to survive the extreme cold. Caribou (reindeer) are another iconic species, migrating in massive herds across the tundra during the warmer months, feeding on lichen and moss. In the northernmost areas, you'll also find the muskox, a mammal with long hair that can withstand the freezing Arctic temperatures.
Of course, we cant talk about wildlife in arctic Canada without mentioning the polar bear, though they are classified as marine mammals due to their reliance on the sea ice for hunting seals. These impressive predators roam the ice and coastal areas, particularly in places like Nunavut and the Northwest Territories.
Are There Polar Bears in Arctic Canada?
Yes, Arctic Canada is one of the best places in the world to see polar bears in their natural habitat. There are several regions where polar bears are commonly found, including the shores of Hudson Bay, Baffin Island, and along the Arctic coastline. In places like Churchill, Manitoba, often referred to as the "polar bear capital of the world," you can witness these incredible animals up close, especially during the fall when they wait for the sea ice to form. The population in Arctic Canada is estimated to be around 15,000 bears, representing about two-thirds of the world’s polar bears.
Polar bears primarily hunt seals but will also scavenge for other food sources if necessary, (sometimes, if desperate enough, they are even known to hunt humans for food) especially when the sea ice is limited in the warmer months. Their presence is a reminder of the fragility of the Arctic ecosystem, as they depend on sea ice for their survival.
Other Wildlife in Arctic Canada
Arctic Canada’s wildlife extends far beyond land mammals, with its waters and skies blooming with life. The region is home to a variety of seabirds, including the thick-billed murre and the northern fulmar, which nest in large colonies on cliffs during the summer months. In the warmer months, migratory birds like the snowy owl and Arctic tern return to breed. The Arctic tern is particularly remarkable, as it makes one of the longest migrations of any bird, flying from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year.
The waters of Arctic Canada are also home to some of the most fascinating marine mammals in the world. Narwhals, often called the “unicorns of the sea,” are known for their long, spiral tusks and can be spotted in the waters around Baffin Island. Beluga whales are another frequent visitor to Arctic waters, gathering in large pods and feeding in shallow coastal areas during the summer. Alongside them, you might encounter bowhead whales, the longest-living mammals on Earth, with lifespans exceeding 200 years.
In addition to whales, walruses are a common sight along the coasts, with their long tusks and large, blubbery bodies making them well-adapted to life in the icy waters. Ringed seals and bearded seals are also abundant, serving as the primary prey for polar bears.