Imagine waking up to the call of a loon echoing across a pristine lake, or catching a glimpse of a majestic moose meandering through a misty forest at dawn. This is Quebec, a province where wildlife thrives in its natural splendor, offering unforgettable encounters for those who seek them. From the expansive boreal forests to the rugged coastlines, Quebec’s diverse ecosystems are a sanctuary for an incredible array of animals, making it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.

Quebec is more than just a place; it’s an experience for those who love the thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural habitat. Picture yourself exploring the Gaspé Peninsula, where seals and whales play along the shore, or trekking through the Laurentian Mountains, home to elusive lynxes and playful beavers. In the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, you might witness the breathtaking sight of a humpback whale breaching the surface. Meanwhile, the province’s numerous national parks and wildlife reserves offer countless opportunities to see black bears, caribou, and even the rare woodland caribou in their native environments.

Each region of Quebec boasts its own unique fauna, providing diverse experiences for wildlife watchers. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist with a keen eye for rare species or someone who enjoys the simple pleasure of observing animals in the wild, Quebec offers a rich tapestry of wildlife experiences. So grab your binoculars and camera, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Quebec. Each adventure promises a closer connection to nature and a deeper appreciation for the incredible biodiversity that defines this remarkable province.

La Pocatière to Rivière-du-Loup

Source: https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/animal-facts-canada-goose/

Distance: 70 km (45 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: Canada geese, black scoters, snow geese, and ducks

Starting your wildlife journey in Quebec, the stretch from La Pocatière to Rivière-du-Loup offers a spectacular view of migratory birds. During the migration seasons, the skies are filled with flocks of Canada geese and snow geese, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. Along the shoreline, black scoters and various ducks can be seen dabbling in the waters. This area is perfect for bird watchers and photographers eager to capture the beauty of these avian travelers. The wetlands and coastal areas provide ideal spots for setting up observation points.

Rivière-du-Loup to Rimouski

Source: https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/animal-care/learn-about-marine-mammals/pinnipeds/pacific-harbor-seal

Distance: 110 km (70 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: seabirds, seals, marine mammals, Harbour and grey seals, white-tailed deer

As you travel from Rivière-du-Loup to Rimouski, the diversity of wildlife continues to amaze. Seabirds are a common sight, with species like gulls and terns often spotted along the coastline. The waters here are also home to harbour and grey seals, which can be seen lounging on rocks or playfully swimming near the shore. The occasional sighting of marine mammals, such as porpoises, adds to the excitement. Inland, white-tailed deer are frequently observed grazing in open fields or darting through forested areas, providing a picturesque view of Quebec’s rich wildlife.

Rimouski to Carleton-sur-Mer

Source: https://www.pacificseafood.com/species/atlantic-salmon/

Distance: 260 km (160 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: 70 species of birds, harbour seals, Atlantic salmon, grey, harbour, hooded, and harp seals, 300 species of birds

The journey from Rimouski to Carleton-sur-Mer is a birder’s paradise. With over 70 species of birds to observe, including rare sightings, this region is a must-visit for ornithologists. Along the coast, harbour seals are a common sight, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive grey, hooded, or harp seals. The rivers in this area are renowned for their Atlantic salmon, making it a popular spot for both wildlife enthusiasts and anglers. The diversity of bird species, totaling around 300, ensures that every visit is a unique experience filled with vibrant bird songs and flutters.

Carleton-sur-Mer to Percé

Source: https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chanhassen_villager/news/opinion/columnists/outdoors-caribou-and-reindeer-are-one-and-the-same/article_263ff9e9-5556-5570-b2f3-8b964aa7b552.html

Distance: 215 km (135 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: caribou, moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, and various reptiles, amphibians, and insects

Traveling from Carleton-sur-Mer to Percé, you’ll encounter a rich variety of Quebec’s larger wildlife. Caribou and moose are often seen in the forests and meadows, and white-tailed deer are a frequent sight. Black bears are also native to this region, adding an element of adventure to your journey. The area is teeming with smaller creatures too, including reptiles, amphibians, and a plethora of insects, contributing to the region’s biodiversity. The dense forests and open landscapes make it an ideal spot for wildlife observation and photography.

Percé to Gaspé

Source: https://www.gufphotography.com/image/I0000rGWLaXyPBmQ

Distance: 65 km (40 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: northern gannet colony, whale-watching excursions

The short but scenic route from Percé to Gaspé offers some of the most thrilling wildlife experiences. Percé is famous for its northern gannet colony on Bonaventure Island, where thousands of these impressive seabirds nest. Whale-watching excursions from Percé are incredibly popular, providing an opportunity to see majestic marine giants like humpback, minke, and even blue whales. The combination of seabird colonies and marine mammals makes this stretch a highlight for nature lovers visiting Quebec.

Gaspé to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

Source: https://www.massaudubon.org/nature-wildlife/mammals-in-massachusetts/bears

Distance: 200 km (125 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: moose, black bears, beavers, and porcupines, razorbills, gulls, and other seabirds, blue whales and spectacular humpbacks

From Gaspé to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, the wildlife sightings are both diverse and spectacular. Moose and black bears roam the forests, while beavers and porcupines can be spotted near water bodies and wooded areas. The coastline attracts seabirds such as razorbills and various gull species. Offshore, the waters are a haven for marine life, including blue whales and the stunning humpbacks. This route is perfect for those who want to experience a wide range of Quebec’s wildlife, from land mammals to sea giants.

Sainte-Anne-des-Monts to Matane

Source: https://www.tastingtable.com/1106430/sea-cucumbers-the-ocean-delicacy-you-should-know/

Distance: 90 km (55 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: crabs, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, white-tailed deer, moose, or caribou

The stretch from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts to Matane offers a fascinating blend of marine and terrestrial wildlife. The coastal areas are rich with marine invertebrates like crabs, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, making tide-pooling a fun activity. Inland, you may spot white-tailed deer and, occasionally, moose or caribou, making this a varied and engaging route for wildlife watchers. The mix of marine life and land animals provides a comprehensive glimpse into Quebec’s ecological diversity.

Matane to Baie-Comeau

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White-tailed_deer

Distance: 2 h 20 by ferry
Wildlife spotted: moose and black bears, white-tailed deer, small mammals, and over 150 species of birds

Taking the ferry from Matane to Baie-Comeau is a scenic and wildlife-rich experience. The crossing often provides sightings of seabirds and, occasionally, marine mammals. Once in Baie-Comeau, the surrounding forests are home to moose and black bears, as well as white-tailed deer. Small mammals like squirrels and hares are common, and bird watchers will be delighted with over 150 species of birds in the area. This route offers a relaxing and enjoyable way to observe Quebec’s diverse wildlife.

Baie-Comeau to Sept-Îles

Source: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/osprey

Distance: 230 km (145 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: seabirds, osprey

The drive from Baie-Comeau to Sept-Îles takes you through some of Quebec’s most beautiful coastal scenery. Seabirds are a constant presence, and spotting osprey, with their impressive wingspans and fishing prowess, is a highlight. The coastal areas provide numerous opportunities for birdwatching and photography, with plenty of stops along the way to take in the natural beauty and observe the wildlife.

Sept-Îles to Havre-Saint-Pierre

Source: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Razorbill/overview

Distance: 220 km (135 mi.)
Wildlife spotted: razorbills, black guillemots, and common murres, whales

The final leg from Sept-Îles to Havre-Saint-Pierre offers some of the best marine wildlife sightings in Quebec. The waters are frequented by whales, providing breathtaking opportunities for whale-watching. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of razorbills, black guillemots, and common murres along the rugged coastline. This stretch is a fitting conclusion to your wildlife journey, showcasing the rich marine and avian life that makes Quebec a premier destination for nature lovers.


Quebec’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife make it an unparalleled destination for nature enthusiasts. From the majestic moose and playful seals to the soaring seabirds and majestic whales, each region offers unique opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re embarking on a leisurely drive or setting out on a dedicated wildlife-watching excursion, Quebec promises unforgettable encounters with its wild inhabitants. So pack your binoculars and camera, and prepare to explore the incredible wildlife that calls Quebec home.