Cumberland County’s Winter Wildlife: What to Spot and Where

Winter transforms Cumberland County, Nova Scotia, into a serene wonderland, offering visitors the chance to connect with nature in a unique and tranquil setting. While many think of summer as the prime time for wildlife exploration, the winter season reveals a different kind of beauty. Snow-covered landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for spotting wildlife, from majestic birds to delicate animal tracks. Here’s your guide to discovering Cumberland County’s winter wildlife and the best locations to experience it.

Birdwatching in Winter

Cumberland County is home to a variety of bird species that thrive during the colder months. Whether you’re an avid birder or just enjoy observing nature, winter offers unique opportunities to spot:

Great Horned Owls: Great horned owls prefer forested areas, typically using nests abandoned by crows, hawks or eagles, which consist of a platform of sticks lined with dead leaves. Your best chance at spotting one of these large birds is to look for them at the forest edge around dusk. With its long, earlike tufts, intimidating yellow-eyed stare, and deep hooting voice, the Great Horned Owl is the quintessential owl of storybooks.

Bald Eagles: Known for their impressive wingspan, bald eagles can often be seen soaring above rivers and open fields. Keep an eye out near the Parrsboro area and along the shores of the Bay of Fundy.

Chickadees and Nuthatches: These small, energetic birds are commonly seen flitting between trees in wooded areas. Bring some birdseed, and you might even have one land on your hand at the Amherst Point Migratory Bird Sanctuary. With a little bit of luck, you may even see a pair of Northern Cardinals.

Animal Tracks and Snowy Adventures

The fresh snow in Cumberland County acts like a canvas for wildlife activity, making it an excellent time to spot tracks and signs of animals. Some common tracks to look for include:

Foxes: Their small, oval-shaped prints are often seen along forest trails and meadows.

White-Tailed Deer: Look for their distinct cloven hoof prints near wooded areas or open fields.

Hares: Their unique tracks, with large hind feet and smaller front feet prints, are easy to spot in snow-covered fields and trails.

Consider bringing a wildlife tracking guide or app to help identify the various prints you encounter.

Best Locations for Winter Wildlife Watching

Here are some of the top spots in Cumberland County to immerse yourself in winter wildlife:

Amherst Point Migratory Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary offers trails and viewing platforms ideal for spotting birds and other wildlife. Its wetlands and forest edges attract a variety of species even in winter.

Chignecto Game Sanctuary: This vast protected area is perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing while keeping an eye out for deer, foxes, and even moose. The stillness of the sanctuary during winter is magical.

Wallace Bay National Wildlife Area: Known for its salt marshes, this area is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring binoculars to get a closer look at overwintering species.

Advocate Harbour Trails: Coastal trails around Advocate Harbour offer the chance to see seals basking near icy shores or waterfowl in the frigid waters.

Maccan Tidal Wetlands Park: The salt marsh in Maccan is ideal for spotting waterfowl and other birds that thrive in open, expansive areas.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Winter Wildlife Experience

Dress Warmly: Layer up with thermal clothing, waterproof boots, and gloves to stay comfortable in cold conditions.

Bring Binoculars and a Camera: A good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens will enhance your experience and allow you to capture stunning moments.

Stay Quiet and Respectful: Wildlife is more skittish during winter. Move slowly and quietly to avoid startling animals.

Check Local Conditions: Snow and ice can make trails slippery or inaccessible. Check the weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Pack Essentials: Carry water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a map of the area to ensure a safe outing.

Snowshoe Lending Program: No need to pack snowshoes for the trip! The Municipality of Cumberland and the Town of Amherst both offer snowshoes, free of charge, for daily use. Contact the Town of Amherst at 902-667-3553 or the Municipality of Cumberland at 902-664-9143 for availability.

Extend Your Adventure

After a day of exploring Cumberland County’s winter wildlife, warm up with a visit to a local café or bakery. Spots like the Glooscap Restaurant in Parrsboro, Duncan’s Pub in Amherst or What’s For Dinner on Route 6 in Pugwash offer delicious food and cozy atmospheres to unwind after your outdoor adventure.

Whether you’re an experienced naturalist or just looking for a peaceful winter activity, Cumberland County’s wildlife provides endless fascination. Bundle up, grab your binoculars, and head out to explore this winter wonderland — you never know what you might discover!