
In BC, "wildlife" is defined as all amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals that are native to the province. That includes a huge range of species, including:
Animal species that are found in BC but are not native to the province are not considered wildlife. This includes:
These species are not protected by legislation. If they are a nuisance, they may be dealt with by private pest control companies in a humane manner.
BC wildlife is protected under the BC Wildlife Act, which is administered by the provincial Ministry of the Environment.
Fish and marine mammals are protected under the Fisheries Act, which is administered by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
Migratory birds are protected under the Species at Risk Act and the International Migratory Bird Treaty. These are administered by the Canadian Wildlife Service of Environment Canada.
You can learn more about wildlife from:
Feeding birds and wildlife is against Park and City bylaws. Please help us keep our wildlife wild by allowing animals to forage for themselves.