Hello Friends of the Wild,
Mid-November brings a different kind of beauty to Greater Vancouver โ quieter trails, mist-covered mornings, and wildlife preparing for winterโs arrival. As the season shifts, so do the routines of the animals who share our home. Hereโs a look at what this month has brought, and how we can continue to walk gently beside our wild neighbours.
1. The Forest Slows: Wildlife Patterns Changing
As temperatures drop, wildlife activity becomes more subtle, yet more meaningful:
- Black bears are entering their denning period, reducing movement as they prepare for hibernation.
- Owls, especially barred and great horned owls, are more vocal now as territorial calls increase before winter breeding.
- Coyotes are seen less often during the day, shifting to dusk and dawn patterns to conserve energy and avoid human activity.
These behavioural shifts remind us that animals conserve energy in colder seasons โ any disruption affects them more deeply.
Tip: If you encounter wildlife during this time, maintain extra distance and keep noise low.
2. Heavy Rainfall & Flooded Habitats
This monthโs atmospheric rivers and heavy rains have reshaped many ecosystems:
- Creeks have swelled, creating stronger currents that challenge migrating fish.
- Wetlands have expanded, giving temporary refuge to ducks and shorebirds.
- Small mammals face increased displacement as burrows flood along low-lying areas.
Flooding is hard on wildlife, but also reminds us how deeply all species depend on stable, healthy watersheds.
Action: If you live near creeks or ravines, remove outdoor waste and secure yard materials โ floodwater can easily carry harmful debris into habitats.
3. Late Salmon Run: A Life Cycle Near Completion
While the main salmon run peaks in October, late-running chum and coho continue to arrive through mid-November.
In North Vancouver, Burnaby, and Coquitlam streams, observers noticed:
- Bright-red males completing their final migration
- Eagles gathering in greater numbers
- Scavengers like mink and raccoons feeding along the banks
The last salmon of the season remind us of the powerful relationship between wildlife, forests, and water. Their final journey nourishes the entire ecosystem.
Reminder: Stay off gravel beds โ even in November, eggs remain buried and vulnerable.
4. Urban Wildlife in the Cold: Coexistence Matters
As nights become colder and food scarce:
- Raccoons and skunks increasingly check compost bins
- Songbirds seek high-energy food sources, making backyard feeders more attractive
- Coyotes follow food smells, especially in residential areas where garbage is left exposed
These are natural survival responses, not โproblem behaviours.โ
What we can do:
- Lock compost and garbage securely
- Bring pet food indoors
- Sweep fallen birdseed to deter rodents
- Keep cats indoors and dogs leashed at dusk
Small steps protect both wildlife and the community.
5. Caring for Winter Birds
Mid-November is one of the best times to support local and migrating birds:
- Install heated bird-baths or change water daily to prevent freezing
- Offer high-energy foods like sunflower seeds or suet
- Plant (or leave standing) berry-bushes that provide natural food
Birds that overwinter in Vancouver โ chickadees, juncos, woodpeckers, sparrows โ rely heavily on stable food sources during cold spells.
Note: Avoid bread or processed foods; they cause long-term health issues for birds.
6. Looking Toward December
As winter deepens, expect:
- More owl activity around forests and parks
- Increased reports of wildlife approaching warm areas like porches or sheds
- Quieter trails โ but louder opportunities for observation
If youโre able, consider joining a local habitat restoration day, winter bird count, or citizen science project. Every small effort strengthens the relationship between humans and wildlife.
Thank you for staying connected to the natural world even as days shorten and temperatures fall. Mid-November teaches us the importance of gentleness: quieter footsteps, slower movements, and deeper awareness.
Until next month,
The BC Animal Rights Hub Team ๐พ๐