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When was the moment you learned to love the environment? The moment you realized wildlife would be a part of your life, your experiences? Was it a caterpillar, winding its way around your tiny finger? Or a fishing trip, a close encounter, even a birdhouse out your kitchen window? Birds’ busy lives closely mirror our own – caring for family, going about our daily tasks. When we shift our focus to the smaller wonders of the world, it opens up the wider one to us with welcoming arms. Let us show you a few of our animal superstars. They deserve our attention, our respect, and our wonder.
NIMMO BAY WILDERNESS RESORT
Cephalopod: A big name for a big wonder
The Giant Pacific octopus is the largest of its species in the world! Fully grown, one could wrestle a six-foot human, but they wouldn’t, as they’re far too busy mimicking rocks and patterns, shifting colours depending on their mood, and decorating their lairs. They also play, problem solve, and have distinct personalities. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, you’ll never forget their impressive form. Whether exploring above or below the surface of the Pacific Ocean, keep your eyes open for the abundance of wildlife that inhabits this remote corner of BC’s coast.
SIWASH LAKE WILDERNESS RESORT
The Butterfly: a metaphor
Butterflies cast a spellbinding beauty! They represent endurance, change, hope, life, and resurrection. After the fire of 2017, the land at Siwash Lake Wilderness Resort had its transformation and is now awash in the colours of nature’s rich palate. Follow fluttering jewelled bodies through forest paths, on foraging tours, to the waterfall. Or try the treetop view yourself on the heli-safari! Take in the panorama of the stunning valley; revel at the breathtaking views as far as the sunset. Emerge a changed soul from your Siwash Lake wilderness experience.
THE PACIFIC YELLOWFIN
Say hello to the Dalls Porpoise
Sure, there are whale sightings and dolphins, seals and seabirds. And the crab, which we might appreciate most when caught straight off the boat for dinner. But an unsung hero? The elusive Dalls porpoise, a Pacific Ocean cetacean with the coloration of an orca. It has a small head, a thick body, and is the fastest of all the small cetaceans – up to 55mph. They like to race – so check off starboard for a small school of dark shapes skimming along the water. Everyone needs to play – even the wild creatures of the sea. Come and join them in the fun!
TWEEDSMUIR PARK LODGE
All Hail the Pacific Salmon
Let’s not overlook the Pacific Salmon – they sustain the bears and other wildlife in the area. They buck the trend, swim upstream, follow their hearts back to their homes. They even take preliminary tosses out of the water to see where the Grizzlies are; then hedge their bets and go for it. Pacific Salmon live their lives to the fullest; we could learn from them. Keep friends close and families closer, take a look and then take the plunge. And explore your surroundings! Try river rafting, hiking the fjords and Coastal mountain range, discover the beauty of the temperate rainforest. There are five different species of Pacific Salmon here to admire.
BELLA COOLA HELI SPORTS
Head up, like a mountain goat
Mountain goats are more than shaggy symbols of perseverance. They are majestic, beautiful animals, unafraid to traverse the terrain. Traveling ever upwards and to the mountaintops – their stairway to the stars. Follow their lead and aim high – to the highest alpine peaks and most pristine powder B.C has to offer. Hike and ski as the eagles soar nearby. Come and realize why Bella Coola Heli Sports was voted “the world’s best ski operator” at the 2017 ski awards. There is no view better than the one from the top, as our mountain goat friends can tell you!
CHURCHILL WILD
The Polar Bear: a spirit guide
Polar bears are fascinating; they show enormous strength, endurance, and purpose. They live in an environment most couldn’t. They are also playful and intelligent, and some say – spirit guides between this world and the next. Get a glimpse of this yourself – as watching them up close is an intense experience that is life altering! Take in the bold colours of the aurora borealis, the ever-expanding horizon of white, the quiet except for the crunch of frost underfoot, and listen to your guides (human and spirit). Behold the edge of the earth and its wonders!