Kouchibouguac National Park

Kouchibouguac Overview

Kouchibouguac National Park, located on the east coast of New Brunswick, Canada, spans 91 square miles (238 square kilometers) along the Northumberland Strait. The park’s name originates from the Mi’kmaq language, meaning “river of the long tides,” a fitting description of its coastal environment.

Established in 1969, the park is known for its diverse mix of landscapes, from coastal sand dunes and salt marshes to bogs, Acadian forests, and lagoons. The Kouchibouguac River meanders through the park, supporting a rich and varied ecosystem. The park’s coastline features shifting sand dunes, the most notable being the barrier islands of the Northumberland Strait, which protect the inner wetlands and marshes.

The peat bogs scattered throughout the park showcase unique plant species, including carnivorous plants like the pitcher plant and sundew. The Acadian forest, a blend of deciduous and coniferous trees, forms a lush backdrop, with stands of red spruce, balsam fir, and yellow birch creating a habitat for numerous species.

Kouchibouguac National Park is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. One of the most significant inhabitants is the endangered piping plover, which nests on the park’s sandy beaches. The park plays a crucial role in the conservation of this small shorebird, implementing strict measures to protect nesting sites. Other notable bird species include great blue herons, osprey, and bald eagles, which can often be spotted near the park’s estuaries and marshes.

The park is also home to a diverse range of mammals, including white-tailed deer, red foxes, and beavers, while the elusive black bear and bobcat roam deeper in the forested areas. Marine life is abundant along the coastal waters, where harbor seals can be seen basking on sandbars and grey seals occasionally make an appearance. The park’s estuarine waters and salt marshes also support a variety of fish species, including Atlantic salmon, which use the rivers and streams as migration routes.

Visitors to Kouchibouguac National Park can enjoy a range of activities that highlight its natural beauty. The park’s extensive network of hiking and biking trails, such as the Kellys Beach Boardwalk and the Kouchibouguac River Trail, provide excellent opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes.

The park’s beaches, particularly Kellys Beach, are a popular attraction, offering warm waters due to the shallow depths of the Northumberland Strait. Canoeing and kayaking along the Kouchibouguac River and its tributaries allow visitors to experience the tranquility of the park’s waterways, while guided interpretive programs offer insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

During winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing provide a unique way to experience the park’s snow-covered landscapes. Camping options range from traditional tent sites to oTENTiks, a blend of a tent and a cabin, providing a comfortable way to stay immersed in nature.

Conservation efforts at Kouchibouguac National Park focus on protecting its fragile ecosystems, particularly the coastal dunes and nesting grounds of the piping plover. Habitat restoration projects and public education initiatives have contributed to the recovery of certain species, though challenges remain, including climate change and coastal erosion.

Park management works closely with Indigenous communities, particularly the Mi’kmaq, to integrate traditional ecological knowledge into conservation strategies. The balance between conservation and recreational use continues to be a priority, ensuring the park remains a refuge for wildlife and a place for visitors to connect with nature.

Park Map

Kouchibouguac National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Kouchibouguac National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its diverse coastal, wetland, and forest habitats supporting a wide variety of bird species. Many migratory and resident birds can be observed throughout the year.

Piping Plover
This small, endangered shorebird nests on the park’s sandy beaches. Its light-colored plumage provides excellent camouflage, making it difficult to spot against the sand.

Great Blue Heron
Standing tall in the park’s wetlands, this elegant wading bird is known for its slow movements and striking blue-gray plumage. It hunts fish and amphibians in shallow waters.

Bald Eagle
One of the most majestic birds in the park, the bald eagle soars over forests and coastlines, scanning for fish and carrion. Its white head and tail feathers make it easily recognizable.

Common Loon
A symbol of Canada’s wilderness, the common loon is often seen floating on the park’s lakes and rivers. Its eerie, haunting calls are a familiar sound in the park’s quieter areas.

Osprey
Also known as the “fish hawk,” the osprey is commonly seen diving into the park’s rivers and coastal waters to catch fish. It builds large nests in trees and on man-made structures.

Black-capped Chickadee
This small, friendly songbird is a year-round resident of the park. It has a distinctive black cap and bib, and its curious nature often brings it close to visitors.

Northern Harrier
A skilled hunter, the northern harrier glides low over marshes and grasslands, searching for small mammals and birds. It is recognizable by its owl-like face and long wings.

Greater Yellowlegs
A migratory shorebird, the greater yellowlegs is often spotted wading in the park’s estuaries and tidal flats. Its long, bright yellow legs make it easy to identify.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The only species of hummingbird found in the park, it hovers near flowers and feeders, feeding on nectar. Males have brilliant red throats that shimmer in the sunlight.

American Black Duck
A common waterfowl species in the park’s wetlands, the American black duck is often seen dabbling for food in shallow waters. It is closely related to the mallard but has darker plumage.

Kouchibouguac National Park provides a rich environment for both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.