Moraine Lake Wildlife: A Guide to Its Inhabitants

Situated within Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is renown for its stunning blue glacial waters below the towering Valley of the Ten Peaks. Beyond its natural beauty, Moraine Lake is a vital habitat for a diverse species of wildlife, serving as an important area of conservation by Parks Canada. Let’s explore some of the lake’s wild residents that you may encounter on a visit to Moraine Lake with ViaVia Shuttle.

Mammals

Grizzly and Black Bears – The area surrounding Moraine Lake is home to both grizzly and black bears. While sightings are rare due to their solitary nature, their presence underscores the wild essence of the Rockies. – Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking.

Elk and Deer – Elk and mule deer are often seen grazing in groups within the meadows. As the seasons change the males of each species grow large racks of antlers to attract a mate and fend off other males.

Pika – Hiding amongst the rock pile’s many boulders, Pikas – tiny, rabbit-like animals, call out with a high pitched squeak! See if you can spot them as they quickly move from rock to rock.

Birds

Bald and Golden Eagles – Majestic eagles can be spied soaring above the lake, often scanning for fish and rodents. Look out for the Bald Eagle's huge wingspan of up to 2.3m stretched in the skies above.

Common Loons – Also known as ‘The Great Northern Diver’, Loons are waterfowl commonly seen on Moraine Lake, especially during dawn and dusk. Their calls are distinctive and haunting, providing the perfect soundtrack to your time at Moraine Lake.

Grey Jays – These small, cheeky birds are often seen trying to steal food from visitors so do be aware! Commonly known as Whiskey Jacks they have become a little accustomed to humans so please don’t feed them as to keep them as wild as possible.

Rodents

Beavers – Canada’s national icon and playfully known as ‘nature's engineers’, Beavers build dams that in turn flood areas to create biodiverse wetlands. Their hard work supports a variety of species around the lake.

Porcupines – A fascinating sight in the Moraine Lake area, these shy, slow-moving creatures are covered in sharp quills as a defence mechanism against predators. They can often spotted climbing trees or wandering through the forest floor, so keep an eye out.

Ground Squirrels & Chipmunks – These small creatures are vital for seed dispersal and are high in population. Watch out for their cheeky and playful antics, these small creatures are always on the lookout for an easy snack.

Marmots – Described by some as ‘Land Beavers’, these gentle creatures are commonly seen sunning on rocks. Listen out for their high pitched whistle that echoes through the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Conservation Efforts - Keeping wildlife wild

The natural beauty and biodiversity of Moraine Lake highlights the importance of conserving this place for future generations to experience. Parks Canada’s guidelines help protect wildlife and habitats and Visitors are encouraged to respect these rules and adhere to "leave no trace" principles to ensure the area remains a wildlife sanctuary. If we each do our part to avoid leaving a trace and reducing human-wildlife conflicts by giving animals space, we help preserve the wonder of Banff National Park for generations to come. By taking ViaVia shuttle you help reduce traffic congestion and your individual carbon footprint during your visit and can learn from a local guide about this wonderful place we call home.

Moraine Lake Wildlife: A Guide to Its Inhabitants

Mammals

Birds

Rodents

Conservation Efforts - Keeping wildlife wild

Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle

Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle

Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle