Gaspésie and its wildlife

Wildlife Watching in Their Natural Habitat

Observing wildlife in Gaspésie means entering a fascinating environment where each habitat is home to its iconic species.

Along the coast, spot seals and whales, or dive to see corals, fish, and crustaceans. On the cliffs, encounter the world’s largest accessible colony of northern gannets. In the rivers, watch for passing salmon. In the forest, you might catch sight of a moose, a black bear moving away, or a white-tailed deer near a trail. With a bit of luck, you may even glimpse one of Quebec’s rare caribou herds. Every encounter becomes a precious moment to capture—so if you enjoy wildlife photography, keep your camera close at hand!

In the Côte-de-Gaspé region, around Rocher-Percé, and across the peninsula, more than 388 bird species attract birdwatchers from spring through winter. Salt marshes, cliffs, and islands become prime observation spots.

Excursions, hikes, diving, and guided activities offer unique opportunities to get close to wildlife. The best chances for sightings are at dawn, dusk, or on foggy days.

Essential Information

To protect wildlife, keep your distance, never feed the animals, and learn about the safe behaviors to follow for the species present.

To read on our blog

Our Advice for Preparing Your Wildlife Excursions

Discover Gaspésie’s Iconic Marine Animals and Sea Birds

Croisières Baie de Gaspé Gaspé (Parc national Forillon) Sea Excursions

Credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Whale

The largest creatures on the planet are fascinating to watch, and seven different species can be seen exploring the Forillon-Percé area, including the ever-impressive blue whale. Enjoy this extraordinary spectacle from May to October on a boat tour to observe them.
Seal

Credit: JC Lemay

Seal

Along the Gaspésie coast, you’ll spot gray seals and common seals basking and enjoying the long flat rocks. Take a sea kayaking trip or a whale-watching cruise to see them up close, especially around Gaspé and Percé, where these activities are well established.
Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé Percé National park – Paid access, between 35,000 and 70,000 visitors

Credit: Dany Vachon

Northern Gannet

Every summer, over 200,000 seabirds nest on the cliffs of Bonaventure Island in Percé. The star attraction is the northern gannet, with more than 116,000 individuals—the largest accessible colony in the world. You can also spot puffins, little auk, and many other species. A boat tour allows you to fully enjoy this spectacular sight.
Moose

Credit: Éric Deschamps

Moose

At Mount Ernest-Laforce in Parc national de la Gaspésie, keep your eyes open for moose! The area has one of the highest moose densities in Quebec and is well known for moose watching. Matane Wildlife Reserve is also home to over 4,000 moose, in an equally favorable environment.
caribou

Credit: Éric Deschamps

Caribou

Mount Jacques-Cartier is home to a precious tundra habitat, essential for the survival of caribou. You may be lucky enough to spot them during a hike by staying on marked trails and respecting designated times to avoid disturbing them. This herd is the only one that remains south of the St. Lawrence River.