Where can you go to have wild birds eat right out of your hand, scoop fish from the sea in a bucket or look a moose in the eye? Where else but Newfoundland?
One of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Newfoundland is an encounter with the wildlife. Not a caged or fenced-in experience or an off-in-the-distance encounter, but an up-close and personal interaction with nature in nature that’s rarely experienced anywhere. It’s an adventure for young and old.
Just Hold Out Your Hand
If you have children, this may be the highlight of their island visit. Grey jays are everywhere in Newfoundland, and are the friendliest birds you’ll ever meet. Unafraid of humans—bold even—these birds think nothing of swooping down on your picnic to ask precociously for a handout. They belong to the raptor family and have a taste for meat, but they’ll happily accept an offering of fruit or berries. Before long, they’ll willingly perch on your outstretched hand and nibble away, cocking their heads at you coyly and singing their thanks. It’s a charming experience and a delight for all ages.
No Hook Required
Visit Newfoundland at the right time and you’ll have the most remarkable experience. Anywhere from the middle of June until the middle of July an amazing phenomenon occurs on the shores of this island—hundreds of thousands of capelin throw themselves at our beaches. The fish have come to spawn; the people, however, have come to collect them, and the event quite often turns into a giant beach party.
Arm yourself with a net, bucket, waste paper basket, whatever’s handy, and head for the beach at dusk. Those silver waves you see rolling in aren’t moonlight glinting off the water, they’re capelin. Just wade right in and scoop them up; no hook required. The children will have a blast picking the squirming little fish right off the beach and tossing them to the flocks of screaming, wheeling gulls eagerly awaiting their turn to participate in the capelin roll.
Turkeys on Parade
If you happen to be travelling through the Codroy Valley—a most scenic drive—don’t be surprised at what you might see on the road. Some years ago, wild turkeys were introduced to the valley, and they’ve thrived here. You’ll see them waddling in single-file parade up the middle of the pavement. They gaggle away quickly enough at your approach, heads bobbing and eyes bulging in alarm, but they won’t go far—just off to the side, where they’re comfortable enough to pose for photos. The youngsters will get a giggle at the sight of a puffed-up male showing off his enormous, fanned tail.
Look Out for Moose!
No matter where you drive on this island, sooner or later you’re bound to come across a moose. They’re not native to Newfoundland, but were introduced in the 1800’s and now number close to 200,000. Moose like to come to the roadway to take advantage of the breeze and get away from the flies. They’re most plentiful in the morning or evening, but can appear at any time, and it’s a real treat to see these enormous, sad-eyed creatures up close. You don’t want to see them too close, though, so watch your speed and keep a good eye out. These majestic beasts weigh up to 1600 pounds, so you’ll know it if you hit one. Since the drive across the island can be a bit tedious for the little ones, why not put them on moose-watch?
Perhaps it’s because this vast island is so sparsely populated, or perhaps it’s just that the animals are as welcoming as the people. What ever the cause, Newfoundland offers some of the most unique close-up encounters with wildlife that a traveller could ever wish for.
