Wildlife in Alberta
Few places in the world have as great a diversity of wildlife as Alberta. The province boasts 515 species that are traditionally considered wildlife, including 10 species of amphibians, 95 mammals, 402 birds and 8 reptiles. British Columbia is the only province with a greater number of mammals.
Modern wildlife management includes the conservation of plants as well. There are about 3500 species of plants and fungi that occur in Alberta.
Wildlife add to the quality of life that residents enjoy and living creatures have an economic as well as a recreational value. Activities such as hunting and wildlife watching contribute significantly to the province's economy.
Alberta's Wildlife Act is the provincial legislation that deals with wildlife. Protecting and maintaining suitable habitat is critical in maintaining long-term wildlife health and viability. Similarly, wildlife health is an important indicator of the health of Alberta's environment.
The provincial government is committed to conserving wild species and it pays particular attention to those that may be at risk of extinction. Alberta has been involved in programs to identify and restore species at risk for more than 25 years.
