Biodiversity and Wildlife Habitats
The BBC and the shoreline along Slocan Lake have been studied and researched extensively in recent years. It is biodiversity rich environment, with the number of lifeforms documented to date in the BBC exceeding 1,400 and over 55 species at risk.
Mammals: The BBC corridor is very active with large mammal movements, including grizzly, wolverine, beavers, moose, elk, mule deer, white tailed deer, bobcat, cougar, Pacific marten and grey wolf. Active throughout the year in the corridor, with increased activity with seasonal range shifts in the spring and fall. Beavers are nature’s water engineers and very active throughout the corridor. Always be aware of wildlife, keep dogs under control and make noise as you move along the trail.
Birds: Over 160 bird species have been identified in the BBC, including the Great Blue Heron, Trumpeter Swans, several species of owls, warblers, eagles and waterfowl. Nests are often built in marshy areas and can easily be seen from the trail. The Summit Lake Marsh section, with its’ pedestrian walkways, is an ideal spot for birdwatching, as is the Snk’Nip Marsh area at the north end of Slocan Lake.
Fish: There are 16 fish species in the BBC. Rainbow trout is the most widespread species and is regularly stocked at Summit Lake. Bonanza Creek provides important spawning habitat for both kokanee and rainbow trout inhabiting Slocan Lake.
Amphibians and Reptiles: The BBC is abundant with amphibians and a scattering of reptiles. In the amphibian group, the Columbia Spotted Frog, Western Toad, Northern Pacific Tree Frog, Coeur d’Alene and long toed salamanders have been confirmed. Extensive efforts are in place at Summit Lake to monitor and protect the Western Toad, a SARA listed species of special concern. The Western Toad is an indicator of the health of the environment they live in and can be found all along the corridor.
Fungi, Lichens and Slime Moulds: Our knowledge about the importance of these critical life forms in ecosystems is ever expanding, as is regulatory recognition. Of note for the province of BC, there are an estimated 1,600 species of lichen and the BBC has identified some potential new to science species. The BBC is rich in habitat that supports a large diversity of macro fungi.
Plants and Trees: The hydrology of the BBC supports over 560 species of plants, trees, shrubs, grasses and flowers. Known for its Interior Cedar Hemlock forests, the trail passes through remnant stands of mature forest. There is a wide range of berries to be found in the BBC and along Slocan Lake, providing a vital food source to wildlife.
If you would like to learn more about this ecologically essential wildlife corridor, and the restoration work that was recently underway, please click here.
