Newfoundland
Visiting Newfoundland for the first time was a journey into a land where nature's raw beauty and untamed elements create an unforgettable experience. The rugged scenery, with its dramatic cliffs, sweeping vistas, and endless ocean horizons, provided a stunning backdrop for our adventures and remarkable photography experiences. Despite the sometimes brutal weather, each day brought new and breathtaking sights. We woke up at 4AM to catch the first sunrise in Canada, an awe-inspiring sight. We wandered through the colourful towns that dot the coastline, each with its unique charm and vibrant character. We visited seabird colonies, finding an abundance of puffins, gannets, and murres, even managing to spot the rogue Steller’s sea eagle far off-course from its natural range. We had magical moments watching humpback whales feeding just feet off the beach at St. Vincent's, their majestic presence leaving us in awe. And we managed to find the iconic moose and caribou that the island is so well known for. We ended our trip with a four-day hike along the Long Range Traverse in Gros Morne National Park, which challenged us physically and mentally but rewarded us with some of the most spectacular landscapes we've ever seen. Each part of our trip offered unique opportunities to capture the essence of Newfoundland's wild and serene beauty through photography. This collection of images is a testament to the island's rugged charm and the incredible wildlife encounters that make Newfoundland an extraordinary place to explore.
Landscapes
Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve
One of the most unique experiences during our time in Newfoundland was a visit to Cape St Mary’s Ecological Reserve - one of the most accessible seabird colonies in North America. The centerpiece of the reserve is Bird Rock, a towering sea stack that rises out of the Atlantic Ocean, teeming with tens of thousands of seabirds, mainly an estimated 24,000 stunning Northern Gannets. As we approached, we were overtaken by the cacophony of bird calls, the distinct and potent smell of seabird guano, and the sight of thousands of birds in flight. Standing in front of Bird Rock, we were mere feet from gannets dive-bombing into the ocean for fish, collecting material to build their nests, and participating in intricate courting dances. Being here was unlike anything I had ever experienced before, and the number of photos I took during that time surely reflects my excitement.
Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve is a focal point for a variety of conservation projects aimed at preserving its unique ecosystem. Biologists conduct regular surveys to track the numbers, breeding success, and health of the many species that live here. They also band birds to study their migration patterns and longevity, helping to identify trends and potential threats to the bird populations, such as changes in food availability, predation, and disease. Many of these projects aim to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change on the reserve's ecosystem such as sea levels, weather patterns, and ocean temperatures. Perhaps most importantly, St. Mary's hosts many education initiatives that aim to engage the public and foster a sense of stewardship for the importance of seabird conservation. By building a community of informed and committed advocates, the reserve strengthens its conservation impact to preserve the incredible diversity.
The Caribou of Port au Choix
Port au Choix, located on the west coast of Newfoundland, is home to a resident caribou herd and was an absolute must-visit given my involvement in caribou conservation. Upon our arrival, Parks Canada staff informed us that the herd was seeking refuge in the forest to avoid the cold wind sweeping through the coastal town, making them harder to find. We spent the day exploring the rugged landscape, with anticipation building as we trekked through diverse terrains, from coastal barrens to dense forests. Late in the afternoon, our perseverance paid off when we finally spotted the herd in the distance. We watched as they moved along the coastline before finding them up-close in a serene wildflower meadow. It was a moment of pure joy and awe as we observed the caribou grazing peacefully before bedding down for the evening, completely unbothered by our presence. The caribou at Port au Choix are part of a larger conservation initiative aimed at preserving the Newfoundland caribou population. Efforts include habitat protection, monitoring population dynamics, and mitigating threats such as habitat fragmentation and climate change. Community engagement and education also play a crucial role in fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards these animals. Our afternoon with the caribou underscored the significance of these conservation programs, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of encountering caribou in the wild.
