Unlike the birdlife which congregates in summer, our mammals are ever present. Those that are bound to the island are particularly tame as they have not come into contact with many people so please ensure that if you are approached by an animal, or come across one, that you act calmly and quietly. You cannot avoid the Chipmunks and Red Squirrels, and the Mink will pass very close by if you are still – I have had one climb over my legs while it searched out the shoreline. In the evenings you should spot the Small Brown Bats skimming up the mosquitos.
You are likely to see the Beavers and Muskrat in the water while smaller animals like Wood Mouse, Shrews, Voles & Weasels can be more difficult to spot.
The Black Bears reside within the eastern sanctuary but sometimes can be seen swimming across the bays or wading the shoreline. Summer visitors include Moose and Deer which can be seen at the waters edge. Luckier visitors may glimpse the Otters and possibly the very rare Fisher.
Our winter guests may get a fleeting glimpse of the Wolves which visit once the lake has frozen over.
Always have a camera at the ready..!
GARDEN ISLAND RETREAT 