Animal activities St Johns

Animal Activities in St John’s

St John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a haven for animal lovers. The surrounding waters and coastal areas are home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

Whale Watching

  • Season: June to September
  • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for best viewing opportunities
  • Tips:
    • Dress warmly as the ocean breeze can be chilly, even in summer.
    • Bring binoculars and a camera to capture those special moments.
    • Choose a reputable tour operator with experienced guides.

St John’s is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales, which migrate through the area every summer. Other species like minke, finback, and orca can also be spotted.

Puffin and Seabird Tours

  • Season: May to August
  • Best Time: Early morning for best viewing opportunities
  • Tips:
    • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to walk on uneven terrain.
    • Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the birds up close.
    • Be prepared for changing weather conditions.

St John’s is home to one of the largest colonies of Atlantic puffins in North America. Take a guided tour to Cape Spear or Witless Bay Ecological Reserve to witness these charismatic birds up close, as well as other seabirds like gulls, guillemots, and murres.

Iceberg Alley

  • Season: April to June
  • Best Time: Late morning for best viewing opportunities
  • Tips:
    • Dress warmly as the air can be chilly near the icebergs.
    • Bring a camera with a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.
    • Keep a safe distance from the icebergs, as they can be unpredictable.

St John’s is one of the few places in the world where you can see icebergs up close. Take a boat tour through Iceberg Alley, located just off the coast of St John’s, to witness these natural wonders and maybe even spot some seals or other marine wildlife.

Other Animal Encounters

  • Seal colonies: Visit the Cape Spear Lighthouse or the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve to see seal colonies basking in the sun.
  • Moose: Keep an eye out for moose along the roadsides, particularly at dawn and dusk when they’re most active.
  • Birdwatching: St John’s is a great destination for bird enthusiasts, with over 200 species recorded in the area.

Remember to respect wildlife and their habitats, keeping a safe distance and following guidelines from local guides or authorities. Enjoy your animal encounters in St John’s!