Wildlife Observation in Gaspésie

Observe Wildlife in Natural Habitats

Spending time in nature in Gaspésie and observing wildlife offers unique opportunities to discover iconic species in their natural habitats.

Along the coast, keep an eye out for whales and seals or go diving to see corals, fish and crustaceans. Along the cliffs, observe the largest accessible colony of northern gannets in the world. In rivers, watch swimming salmon. In the forest, you may catch sight of moose, black bears or white-tailed deer near a trail. With a bit of luck, you may even glimpse one of Québec’s rare caribou herds. Every encounter becomes a precious moment you will want to capture: if you enjoy wildlife photography, be sure to keep your camera handy!

In the Côte-de-Gaspé and Le Rocher-Percé sectors as well as all around the peninsula, nearly 400 bird species attract birdwatchers throughout the year. Salt marshes, cliffs and islands are all prime observation sites.

Excursions, hikes, dives and guided activities are all great ways to see wildlife. To increase your chances of spotting wildlife, go out at dawn, at dusk or on foggy days.

Important Information

To protect wildlife, keep your distance, never feed the animals and read these tips to keep yourself safe.

Read on Our Blog

Tips for Planning Your Wildlife Outings

Discover the Iconic Wildlife Species of Gaspésie

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

Credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Whales

Whales, the largest creatures on the planet, are fascinating to watch. You can see seven different species of cetaceans in the Forillon-Percé area, including impressive blue whales. Go on a whale-watching cruise between May and October to observe this extraordinary show.
Seal

Credit: JC Lemay

Seals

Along the coast of Gaspésie, you are likely to spot grey and harbour seals basking in the sun on long flat rocks. Go on a sea kayaking excursion or 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 Gannets

Every summer, over 200,000 seabirds nest in the cliffs on Bonaventure Island, off Percé. Northern gannets are the main attraction of this migratory bird sanctuary: over 116,000 of them are found here in the largest accessible colony in the world. You can also spot Atlantic puffins and razorbills as well as many other bird species. Go on a boat tour to fully enjoy this spectacular sight.
Moose

Credit: Éric Deschamps

Moose

If you climb Mont Ernest-Laforce in Parc national de la Gaspésie, you will want to keep your eyes peeled for moose! The area has one of the highest moose densities in Québec, making it a popular moose-watching destination. Another place to visit to see moose is the Réserve faunique de Matane, which is home to over 4000 of these majestic animals.
caribou

Credit: Éric Deschamps

Caribou

Mont Jacques-Cartier is covered in alpine tundra, an essential habitat for the caribou of Gaspésie. You may be lucky enough to spot them during a hike, but be sure to stay on marked trails and comply with designated times to avoid disturbing them. This herd is the only one still found south of the St. Lawrence.