Every season on the coast has its own draw. But fall just may be the most underrated one. Some guests are concerned that it's not an ideal time for wildlife viewing, but really it's the opposite.
Humpbacks are still here!
These migratory marine mammals are still here for the autumn. While they spend their winters in warmer waters, such as Hawaii or Mexico, to breed, this migration doesn’t begin until late October to early November. This makes fall a great time to see Humpback whales.
Grizzlies, Grizzlies, Grizzlies
Our Grizzly tours are timed with the Salmon run, when Grizzlies move into rivers to feed on Salmon. During this time they go into this type of hypnotic state called hyperphagia, where they’re focused entirely on feeding on salmon and we can safely view them. While we can see a few Grizzlies in the spring coming out of hibernation, fall is our chance to see them in far greater numbers, as they bulk up for winter!
Salmon as a keystone species
If you go on a grizzly tour, there’s a very, very good chance that you’ll see some Salmon in the rivers. It’s amazing to see Salmon in this environment, as you will be witnessing a keystone species of the region. Salmon actively contribute to the health of the ecosystem. During their upstream migration, they transport nutrients from the ocean into freshwater ecosystems. And when Grizzlies feed on them, bringing their remains back to the forest, this fertilizes the surrounding environment. Salmon's significance extends far beyond ecological considerations. They hold crucial cultural importance for Indigenous communities in BC through traditional practices, cultural heritage, and spiritual beliefs.
Wildlife doesn’t care if it’s raining
Fall offers an unpredictable mix of warm sunny days and cool rainy ones. But unpredictability is part of the fun! And while we love the sunny days, the rainy days have their benefits too: Overcast lighting is the best for photography, and without a glare from the sun on the water, spotting whale activity from a distance becomes much easier.
The fall scenery
The rainy days bring with them gorgeous, moody West Coast views - and not to mention the amazing fall foliage.
Calmer waters
Autumn is part of the shoulder season for wildlife viewing tours in Campbell River. This makes for less crowded waters when observing wildlife, and often shoulder season tour rates and deals. All of this helps create calmer, cozier whale watching experiences. If you can avoid the tourist rush of the summer, why not do so?
Words by Olivia Rumbell.
