They are sometimes seen on the rocks beside the ferry route through Active Pass, and at Race Rocks near Victoria, among many other suitable rocky islets. From December through April, sea lions converge on the east side of Vancouver Island to feed on herring that are returning to spawn.
What kind of seals live in Victoria BC?
Pacific Harbour Seal (Phoca vitulina)
- distribution is north of the equator.
- found at various haul-out (rocky outcrops) sites around the Victoria area.
- tens of thousands of harbour seals are found along the coasts of Vancouver Island.
- one pup per female and approx.
Are there seals in Victoria BC?
Our goal was to see some of Victoria’s most iconic spots on a sunny summer weekend. First on our list was Fisherman’s Wharf. There are seals that swim along the docks waiting for the many tourists that can buy bait from a local shop and feed them. Watching the seals surface from the water was a highlight.
Where can I see seals in Victoria BC?
Harbour Seals can be found all along the North Pacific coast, with favourite haul-outs in the area at Race Rocks, Trial Island and Chain Islands. Because the waters are so cold here, the seals haul-out on the rocky shores at low tide to save energy trying to keep warm in the frigid waters.
Where are sea lions in BC?
Vancouver Island
In British Columbia, Steller sea lions have rookeries in three locations: off the northeastern tip of Vancouver Island, off the southern tip of Haida Gwaii, and off the northern mainland coast. These are some of the largest congregations of Stellers worldwide.
Where can I see sea lions in Victoria BC?
They are sometimes seen on the rocks beside the ferry route through Active Pass, and at Race Rocks near Victoria, among many other suitable rocky islets. From December through April, sea lions converge on the east side of Vancouver Island to feed on herring that are returning to spawn.
What wildlife lives in Victoria BC?
Marine mammals such as killer whales, humpback whales, minke whales, grey whales, porpoises, seals, sea lions and sea otters depend on this region for part or all of their life cycle.
Are there wolves in Victoria BC?
There are two wolf packs in the capital region — in East Sooke and the Sooke Hills. Norris said anyone encountering a wolf should give it lots of room and back away slowly. It can also help to make yourself look as big as possible, wave your arms or shout.
Are there octopus in Victoria BC?
The marine biologist says that B.C.’s west coast is home to the Giant Pacific Octopus, which is the largest species in the octopus family, and are not to be mistaken for squids.
Does Vancouver Island have seals or sea lions?
Steller sea lions are the most common sea lion on Vancouver Island and numbers are estimated close to 25,000 in British Columbia. They can be seen on all areas on Vancouver Island though you will most likely see them from a boat since they seem to hang out on isolated rocks and small islands.
Can you see orcas from Victoria BC?
In fact, Victoria is not only considered one of the best places for whale watching in Canada but in the world. Victoria is a beautiful Canadian city, and its coastal waters are the perfect environment for transient orcas, humpbacks, grey whales, and other marine species.
Can you see orcas in Victoria?
While it is possible to see whales at any time of the year, there is a peak season from May through October. During this peak season we boast a greater than 95% chance of spotting whales in Victoria, particularly resident orcas, humpback whales, and transient orcas!
Can you see whales in Victoria BC?
Majestic mammals and marine wildlife abound in the waters surrounding Victoria, including the orca, or killer whale, and gray, humpback, and minke whales.
Are there seals on Vancouver Island?
Wildlife – Harbour Seals. The most abundant and commonly sighted marine mammal on our coast, the harbour seal is definitely a favourite! With their dog-like faces and curiosity, and the way they wiggle on their bellies along the rocks and logs, they are undeniably cute.
How far off shore do sea lions go?
Some might dive to the bottom of the ocean floor for their meals. Adult females stay within 6.2 to 62.1 miles from shore to feed, while males may go as far as 280 miles when the water is warm. What is this?
How far up the Columbia do sea lions go?
Since the early 1980s, California sea lions have been moving in increasing numbers farther and farther up the Columbia River – first to the Astoria area, then to the Cowlitz River and on to Bonneville Dam, 145 miles from the river mouth.
Are there sharks in Victoria BC?
With all this in mind, BC is actually quite rich in shark species. We’ve got dogfish, obviously, but also blue sharks, threshers, pacific sleeper sharks and others – 14 shark species have been documented off British Columbia, including the: Blue Shark – The classic ‘shark’ with dorsal fin and sleek shape.
Where can I see starfish in Victoria?
Over the rocks at Holland Point Park you can find tide pools with pale anemones, whelks, and tiny little crabs. Look down through the crevasses of the boulders and you’ll find the rocks teeming with deep purple starfish and if you’re very lucky you may even catch a glimpse of a sun starfish!
Are there dolphins in Victoria BC?
Here in Victoria, we often encounter Pacific white-sided dolphins, harbour porpoises, and Dall’s porpoises.
Are there Grizzlies in Victoria BC?
British Columbia has about one-quarter of all black bears in Canada, and half of all grizzly bears. Until recently there were no grizzly bears on Vancouver Island, and there are few or no grizzlies in the heavily settled Lower Mainland or the dry, southern areas of British Columbia.
What is the top predator on Vancouver Island?
Cougars
Cougars are at the top of the food chain, and fierce predators. Although they will normally avoid confrontation with humans, unfortunately, their actions are often unpredictable. There is also little understanding of what might trigger an attack. Children and pets are most likely to be the victim of a cougar attack.