Mount Robson Inn

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Archive for the ‘Wildlife’ Category

Mount Robson Bird Blitz

June 1st, 2013 by insideout

A long tradition in Mount Robson Park, the ‘Bird Blitz” takes place in June each year.  Bird enthusiasts from far and wide come to enjoy the beautiful spring scenery as well as the opportunity to observe and count the park’s incredible bird population. Volunteers help to track and record data about population and diversity. This year, the Bird Blitz is taking place June 7-9, 2013.

This annual event began in 1982. It is a popular occasion, producing long term trend information on the bird population that the park system uses when implementing use plans for Mount Robson. Approximately 170 bird species have been observed.

The type of winter and spring we are having usually affect the birds. For example, during cool and wet springs, there are usually less species of birds observed, maybe 100-105 species. Here are some of the species you can expect to see:

The Hammond Flycatcher

The Hammond Flycatcher

American Pipits at valley bottom levels, especially if there is still snow up at higher altitudes.

Hammond’s Flycatchers can be seen foraging several feet above the ground. Similarly, Alder Flycatchers will hug ground level rather than being high up.

Rufous Hummingbirds are observed at valley level.

Saw-whet Owls (often with young) can be seen by the careful observer, sometimes near Kinney Lake. This is a newer species to the park.

Wilson’s Warblers are widespread below the snow level, along with the hummingbirds.

If you are interested in participating in the Bird Blitz this June, contact Gail Ross at gailross1@telus.net or Nancy at 250-563-7896.

Lodging for a Mount Robson Visit

Whether you come to bird watch, hike or simply relax in the beautiful setting of the park, enjoy superior lodging as close to Mount Robson park as you can get.

 

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Wildlife Conservation at Mount Robson

March 30th, 2013 by insideout

In the last blog post, we talked about overall conservation practices in Mount Robson Park, specifically protecting the headwaters of the Fraser River.

For this post, we want to continue to the conservation theme by writing about wildlife conservation practices at the park. Nature is not only about scenery, it is also about a place where ecosystems thrive and a variety of species survive.

To date, 42 species of mammals, four amphibians, one reptile (I wonder what it is!) and 182 species of birds are recorded as residing in the park. These are typical species of the moist, western slope of the Rocky Mountains.

The Mountain Goat on top of the Mount Robson Park Sign

The Mountain Goat on top of the Mount Robson Park Sign

From Moose who graze the valley bottoms to the Mountain Goats and Golden eagles of the Alpine Tundra Zone, all four bio-geo-climactic zones within the park provide habitat for species whom have adapted the unique characteristics found in each zone. Some animals, like the Grizzly bear or Mule Deer, find suitable habitats in multiple zones or elevations.

Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing are available on a drive through the highway corridor in late Spring. Park staff have observed Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Moose, Elk, Wolf, Coyote, Black Bear, Grizzly Bear and a large variety of waterfowl.

In the spring, Elk mothers (cows) become extremely protective of their new calves. Moose and deer will also actively defend their young but Elk seem most prone to short tempers when confronted with anything they perceive as a threat to their young. In the fall of the year its the male Elks that can become aggressive. The “mating or rutting” season in September and October can make even the most seemingly docile Elk, Moose or Deer aggressive. Although they are beautiful, give all wildlife the space they need to ensure their safety and yours. The best way to observe wildlife close up is with binoculars.

A number of the valleys in the park have no routes or trails and extremely low levels of human use. This is in keeping with the belief that “wilderness” means wild and the Grizzly Bears, Caribou, Wolverines and other wilderness-loving species seem quite happy to keep it that way.

Wildlife Lovers Welcomed at Mountain River Lodge

We love the wilderness, just like you do. That is why we offer the accommodations closest to Mount Robson park. Come and visit us this spring.

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Wildlife Viewing in Mount Robson Park

February 20th, 2013 by insideout

Although the bears are still sleeping, there is plenty of wildlife activity in the park during the winter. Ek, mule deer and coyote are common. Driving the Corridor through the center of the park is a good place to look for moose, mountain sheep and caribou. Wolves are sometimes seen in the quieter corners of the park. Herds of elk can be seen as well.

Remember: these are wild animals! If you should see them, keep your distance for your own safety and do not feed them for your sake and theirs. Winter can be an especially difficult time for animals. Your respect for their need to feed and rest undisturbed will help them survive.

If you are patient, you might see a fox like this one foraging or hunting in the snow.

If you are patient, you might see a fox like this one foraging or hunting in the snow.

Though they seldom show themselves to humans, mammals like snowshoe hares, martens, weasels, lynx, foxes, cougars and wolverines are also active in the park in winter. If you don’t actually see these animals you are certain to see signs of their presence. The winter snow is like a blank page on which the comings and goings of the park’s inhabitants are recorded for anyone who takes the time to interpret the tracks left behind.

Winter Time Lodging near Mount Robson

Our cabins are open year round! So if you love to explore on snowshoes, cross country skis or the like, and take in the quiet peace of wintertime, we would love to be your hosts. Mountain River lodge has accommodations with breakfast service and stand alone cabins.

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Where the birds are

April 12th, 2012 by claudia

In the most recent issue of British Columbia magazine, an article on bird-watching showcases the wonderful opportunities for spotting birds here in Mount Robson Park. In an interview with Dick Cannings, one of the county’s pre-eminent birders, Dick reveals that as well as being one of the most spectacular places on the continent, Mount Robson is great for birding, as it is on an east-west/north-south border of species distribution. A walk up the Kinney Lake Road, just a few minutes away from Mountain River Lodge, can produce sightings of magnolia warbler, blackpoll warbler and Tennessee warbler species not seen in other parts of BC.

WHERE: Highway 16 runs through the middle of Mount Robson Park, offering easy access to many scenic trails, all great for birding.

WHEN: Best times to visit are from May through October.

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