Wildlife of Nova Scotia

Marine Life

Toothed Whales

Nova Scotia's coastal waters are home to 11 species of toothed whales, including the minke whale, killer whale, and sperm whale.

Baleen Whales

Baleen whales, which include the blue whale, fin whale, and humpback whale, also frequent Nova Scotia's waters. These massive creatures range in size from the minke whale, which measures about 30 feet long, to the blue whale, which can grow up to 100 feet long.

Baleen whales are filter feeders, using baleen plates to strain tiny organisms called krill from the water.

Birds

Nova Scotia is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 174 different species breeding in the province every year. Another 62 species regularly pass through or winter in Nova Scotia.

Some of the most common birds in Nova Scotia include the American robin, black-capped chickadee, and bald eagle.

Nova Scotia is also home to several rare and endangered bird species, such as the piping plover and the roseate tern.