Wildlife

With such an abundance of diverse landscapes and ecological zones it is not surprising that Whistler is home to a large number of animal species.

The most famous of these is the Black Bear. Bears are numerous in the area with an estimated nine residing on Whistler Mountain alone. Food for the local bear population is abundant in the area and efforts are underway by Whistler-Blackcomb to increase this abundance even more by seeding ski runs with bear friendly foliage.

Another famous Whistler resident is the marmot. Living in colonies high up in the alpine a marmot resembles a giant mouse. Many people affectionately refer to marmots as “Whistler’s” do to their distinctively loud warning whistle. This is where Whistler Mountain originally received its name.

Other common mammals include a large number of Beavers and River Otters that inhabit the Whistler Wetlands, Raccoons, Deer, Coyotes, Squirrels and Pika.

Birds that are commonly seen in the area include Red Tailed Hawks, Bald Eagles, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Ravens, Clark’s Nut Crackers, Ducks, Mergansers, Blue Jays and Grey Jays.