People go to Africa to see the big 5 but have you ever thought of Newfoundland‘s BIG 5? Canada is a unique and diversified country and the island of Newfoundland located on it’s eastern side in the Atlantic ocean is no different.
Newfoundland is often overlooked but it’s a real hidden gem with it’s breathtaking geology. Although having to take a ferry or a plane may deter a few tourist from visiting this island, it is well worth the trouble. Newfoundland is renowned for its friendly people and much more. Here are Newfoundland’s BIG 5:
#1 The Tablelands
The Tablelands mountains are part of the ophiolites which are unique igneous rocks that you can only see in rare locations around the world. Located in Gros Morne National Park, they are part of a world UNESCO site. In fact, they are the earth’s oceanic crust and composed mainly of serpentine, peridotite and gabbro to name a few rocks. Peridotites are the yellow-orange rocks that create the Mars-like landscape of the Tablelands. In Newfoundland there are actually 4 ophiolite mountains, the Tablelands, North Arm Hills, Blow Me Downs and the Lewis Hills. One should make sure to check out at least one of them.
#2 Moose
Moose are everywhere, especially when you are hiking or driving around dawn or dusk. And they’re not even native to the island. Did you know that 4 were introduced in 1904 from New Brunswick? Since moose have very few predators the population bloomed and is now at approximately 120,000. Keep your eyes open!
#3 Whales
Whales are on everyone’s bucket list. Graceful giants of the ocean they follow the capelin, a tiny fish along Newfoundland’s coast. Thus bringing about 21 different species every summer. The best way to view them is to get on one of the many boat tours offered around the island. You may get lucky and see a humpback breaching out of the water.
#4 Puffins
Puffins, a cute little black bird with a orange beak is a favorite. Although not many seems to realize its actual size which is no more than 30 cm. They visit Newfoundland by the millions to breed along the cliffs,especially around Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Puffin’s beaks turn from black to orange as the nesting season approaches. Furthermore many tour operators will offer boat tours. Some colonies such as the one from Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve are even accessible by land.
#5 Icebergs
Newfoundland, home to Iceberg Alley, stretches from its Northern tip down the East coast. It leads to being one of the greatest and few places in the world that you can marvel at this unique nature’s display. Icebergs breaking off Greenland’s arctic scenery can take up to two years before reaching Newfoundland. In short, one may consider travelling to Newfoundland in June as it tends to be the best viewing month. Also Iceberg Finder is a great tool to help locate icebergs.
How many of Newfoundland’s BIG 5 have you seen? Explore the island of Newfoundland, it has even more to offer.
If you are looking for more adventures to do in Newfoundland check out our YouTube channel by clicking here.
Alex
Live Wildly Intrepid!
Carpe Diem
