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Wildlife

Wildlife is an integral part of the ecosystem here, and it’s always a memorable experience seeing animals in their natural habitat. You never know when you might spot a deer wandering down Banff Avenue on your morning jog or catch an elk grazing by the road on the Bow Valley Parkway.

Person with binoculars in the forest in Banff National Park, in the summer.Person with binoculars in the forest in Banff National Park, in the summer.Person with binoculars in the forest in Banff National Park, in the summer.

What you might see

Banff National Park is home to hundreds of diverse species of wildlife. Look to the skies and you may see bald eagles circling overhead, or one of 260 other species of birds that live here. Grizzly bears and black bears roam the peaks and valleys, as well as moose, elk, wolves and cougars. Keep an eye out as you drive through the park’s mountain roads and you might even see bighorn sheep bounding up the hillsides. Learn more about the species found in Banff National Park.

Responsible wildlife viewing

When observing wildlife, it’s important to remember that we are visitors in their home. Be sure to give plenty of space and never give them food. In fact, it’s illegal to feed, touch or even approach wild animals. During certain times of year, areas may see closures to keep both you and wildlife safe. The Parks Canada website has plenty of information on wildlife safety and how you can do your part to help preserve the ecology of the park.

Two elk stand amongst the trees in Banff National Park on a snowy winter dayTwo elk stand amongst the trees in Banff National Park on a snowy winter dayTwo elk stand amongst the trees in Banff National Park on a snowy winter day
A bear walking in Lake Louise Ski resort.A bear walking in Lake Louise Ski resort.A bear walking in Lake Louise Ski resort.
Big Horn Sheep explore the Norquay Lookout during a BLLT photoshoot on a snowy winter dayBig Horn Sheep explore the Norquay Lookout during a BLLT photoshoot on a snowy winter dayBig Horn Sheep explore the Norquay Lookout during a BLLT photoshoot on a snowy winter day
Two marmots on a ridge at sunset with trees in the backgroundTwo marmots on a ridge at sunset with trees in the backgroundTwo marmots on a ridge at sunset with trees in the background
A grizzly bear and her two cubs hang out in a meadow surrounded by evergreen trees in the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park.A grizzly bear and her two cubs hang out in a meadow surrounded by evergreen trees in the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park.A grizzly bear and her two cubs hang out in a meadow surrounded by evergreen trees in the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park.
An image of a Deer in Banff Springs.An image of a Deer in Banff Springs.An image of a Deer in Banff Springs.

Wildlife through the seasons

You’re likely to see different animals depending on the time of year you visit. Bears start their hibernation in the late fall and reappear around the valley floor in the spring. Once the snow melts in the summer months, you’ll see them higher in the peaks before they return to the valley floor again for berries in late summer. Elk rutting (breeding) season is from late August until mid-October, and their calves are born in mid-May to early July. While they are beautiful to admire from afar, elk are more aggressive during these months and it’s important to keep your distance.

Photo of wildlife that appeared on the Discover Banff and it's Wildlife Tour in Banff National ParkPhoto of wildlife that appeared on the Discover Banff and it's Wildlife Tour in Banff National Park

Take a guided wildlife tour

The wildlife in Banff National Park can be elusive and sometimes hard to see. To increase your chances of an incredible wildlife experience, join a knowledgeable local for a guided tour in search of the wild residents that call the Banff and Lake Louise area home.

Learn More

Wildlife Overpasses and Underpasses

As you drive through the park, you’ll spot a number of wildlife bridges and tunnels. These crossings were created to help animals safely connect their habitats and migration routes without having to cross the road, keeping both animals and motorists safe. With 38 underpasses and 6 overpasses, Banff National Park has the most wildlife crossings in the world.

By respecting these landscapes and the animals that call them home, we can help keep Banff National Park wild and thriving for many generations to come.

Aerial view of Highway 1 in Banff National ParkAerial view of Highway 1 in Banff National ParkAerial view of Highway 1 in Banff National Park