2023: A Year of Animal Encounters in British Columbia
The year 2023 proved to be a remarkable one for animal enthusiasts in British Columbia, Canada, a province renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife. From dramatic rescues to rare sightings and heartwarming moments, animals, both wild and domestic, captured headlines and hearts throughout the year. This compilation revisits ten captivating stories that showcase the incredible encounters with the province’s fauna.
The year kicked off with a dramatic rescue in North Vancouver, where a Goldendoodle named Grizzly had a close call. While chasing a ball at Quarry Rock, the adventurous canine lost his footing and tumbled down a steep ledge. Fortunately, District of North Vancouver firefighters were on hand to execute a high-angle rescue, reuniting the relieved owner, Esther, with her furry companion. Just days later, the world’s attention shifted to the mesmerizing turquoise waters off Vancouver Island, a phenomenon caused by the annual herring spawn. Geoff Johnson, a local photographer, captured stunning footage of this natural spectacle, showcasing the vibrant hues of the ocean transforming into a breathtaking canvas of blue.
April brought a touch of both humor and concern as Emerson, a well-known elephant seal, returned to the shores of Victoria after an impressive journey of hundreds of kilometers. Emerson’s affinity for human interaction, stemming from being cared for by volunteers after being weaned, led him back to the familiar beaches. While his presence delighted onlookers, officials were mindful of the potential impact of his close interactions with people. Meanwhile, British Columbia’s humpback whales took center stage in an episode of the acclaimed nature documentary series Planet Earth III. This appearance highlighted not only the majestic creatures but also the vital research being conducted by local scientists, bringing their work to a global audience.
May brought a delightful encounter with a mother bear and her cub in Coquitlam. Susi Buonassisi captured a heartwarming video of the duo in her backyard, where the mother bear, after momentarily setting down her cub, attempted to climb into a swing, offering a moment of levity. June ushered in a rare and remarkable event in Lillooet as a couple witnessed the birth of three fawns in their backyard. Marine Rose and her husband were astonished to discover a doe giving birth in their children’s old sandbox, providing an intimate glimpse into the circle of life in the wild.
August brought hope for the resurgence of a rare species in the waters off B.C.’s coast. Nick Gallant and his wife, during an excursion with Island Magic Experiences, spotted a basking shark, a creature seldom seen in the region. This sighting sparked excitement amongst nature enthusiasts, suggesting a potential comeback for the species. September delivered an awe-inspiring moment off the coast of Vancouver Island when Tomis Filipovic, a naturalist, captured a humpback whale known as Zillion feeding on a bait ball. The photographs revealed a surprising twist: a seal, momentarily engulfed by the whale, emerged unharmed, creating a captivating narrative of predator and prey interaction.
The year’s animal adventures concluded with two captivating incidents in December. In Barkley Sound, cinematographer Peter Mieras accidentally captured stunning footage of a humpback whale feeding on a bait ball, a testament to the serendipitous nature of wildlife encounters. Finally, in Nelson, a Boxer’s impatience while waiting for her owner in a parked car led to an amusing scene, as the dog decided to express her frustration by laying on the car horn, bringing a touch of canine comedy to the year’s end. These ten captivating stories underscore the enduring connection between humans and animals, reminding us of the wonder and diversity of the natural world that surrounds us. They also showcase the unique position of British Columbia as a haven for these remarkable creatures, highlighting the importance of conservation and respect for their habitats.
