This Natural Area is an island in the Bow River, 6 km downstream of the Ghost Dam and 10 km northwest of Cochrane.
Map of the Area
Any maps and map views are for general information only. Do not rely on them for navigation or to determine legal boundaries.
Other Information
The island is sheltered with a canopy of white spruce. A layer of scattered shrubs makes walking around the island relatively easy. Most of the ground cover on the island is a thick layer of moss and creeping juniper. Aspen and balsam poplar are scattered throughout the island as well as concentrated in a stand on the southeast corner.
Habitat for a Variety of Birds. The Cliff Swallow, which feeds on Mayflies that hover over the river, is the most populous species. Canada Geese nest on the island. The presence of many fish-eating birds such as Common Mergansers, Belted Kingfishers and Osprey attest to the abundance of fish in the Bow River. Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Eastern Kingbirds, Dark-eyed Juncos and Olive-sided Flycatchers also frequent the island.
Biophysical Observations (via iNaturalist)
Are you a member of iNaturalist.ca? It is free to join and you can help nature by making observations with your smart phone.
If there are no or only a few observations, how about visiting and adding some? While there, complete a site inspection report (but read the Site Inspections terms and conditions first).
Observations & Projects for this Natural Area
- Observations for this Natural Area.
- No iNaturalist Projects.
Site Statistics
| Site Name | Wildcat Island |
| Site Type | Natural Area |
| Subtype | Order-in-council (OC) |
| Natural Region(s) | Foothills Parkland |
| O.C. No. (Land Ref. Manual) | 387/87 |
| PASite ID (Map Ref #) | 496 |
| Site # (Parks Website) | 522 |
| Total Area | 7.76 ha. (19.18 ac.) |
| Steward-Status | |
| Recreation Activities | Birding, Canoeing/kayaking |
| IUCN | II |
| Operated By | Parks Division |
| Notes and Comments |
References
The following links are provided as a courtesy but are not verified or endorsed by SAPAA. Clicking on the link will cause you to leave the SAPAA website. Primary source of information is: Information & Facilities – Wildcat Island Natural Area | Alberta Parks (All links accessed on 2025-05-29).
SAPAA 