Meet the Neighbours: Species You Might Not Know Call Interlake Home
Tucked within the forests, wetlands, and lakeshores of the Interlake region a surprising array of wildlife calls this area home. From endangered bats tucked in hibernation dens, to delicate shorebirds nesting along Manitoba beaches. Despite the resilience of these precious species, many face serious threats from habitat loss, climate change and human interference.
Let’s get to know some of our remarkable neighbours, reminding us just how rich—and fragile—our local ecosystems really are.
Birds:
- Piping Plover
The piping plover is a stocky shorebird that nests on the sandy shores along the shores of Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba, and West Shoal Lake, and sometimes Oak Lake and Whitewater Lake. Often in sparsely vegetated areas, these birds eat small insects and worms.
The greatest threats to piping plovers are loss of habitat from human activity, high water levels that flood nesting and feeding areas, and alternatively low water levels that allow vegetation to grow in these spots.
- Trumpeter Swan
The Trumpeter Swan, North America’s largest native waterfowl and among its heaviest flying birds, was nearly wiped out in the early 1900s. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, its recovery is now a celebrated success. While typically wary of people, swans in protected parks and refuges may grow used to human presence. With a population of around 63,000, they inhabit freshwater and saltwater wetlands, lakes, rivers, ponds, and open grassy areas.
- Whip-poor-will
Often heard but rarely seen, the Whip-poor-will calls its name in endless repetition on warm summer nights in eastern forests. A single bird was once recorded singing 1,088 times without pause. During the day, it rests motionless on the forest floor or a low branch, blending into its surroundings. With a population of about 1.8 million, it inhabits forests, and shrublands.
- Red-headed Woodpecker
Bold and unmistakable, the Red-headed Woodpecker fascinated early ornithologists like Alexander Wilson and Audubon. Known for its striking pattern, sharp calls, and energetic behavior, it’s often seen in small colonies across semi-open areas. Though it migrates only short distances, flocks may appear in early fall and late spring. Once common in eastern North America, it’s now uncommon and localized. This species, with a population around 1.8 million, inhabits fields, forests, shrublands, savannas, and even urban areas.
Other Species:
- Little Brown Myotis and Northern Myotis
The little brown myotis (bat) and northern myotis are found across Canada, except Nunavut. They are small, insect-eating, hibernating bats. There are bat hibernacula (sites where bats migrate) in Manitoba, including in the Fisher River region.
White-nose syndrome, a fungal disease, is the biggest threat to the little brown myotis and northern myotis. These bats are listed as endangered by ESEA, SARA, and COSEWIC. The IUCN lists the little brown myotis as endangered but the northern myotis as near threatened.
- Monarch Butterfly
The monarch butterfly performs a remarkable multi-generational migration, travelling 4,000 kilometers from breeding grounds in Canada to winter in oyamel fir forests in Central Mexico. In the spring, a new generation of monarchs begin the long journey north.
The only food monarch caterpillars eat is Milkweed, which is found in fields, roadsides, wetlands, prairies, and open forests. Habitat loss, climate change, the use of herbicides and pesticides and an invasive species that looks like milkweed is contributing to a dramatic decline in the monarch population. SARA lists the monarch as a species of special concern, and COSEWIC lists it as endangered.
- Gastony’s Cliffbrake
Gastony’s cliffbrake is a globally rare fern that grows only on limestone cliffs and ledges. Found exclusively in Manitoba’s Interlake region, it has not been recorded anywhere else in the province. These limestone cliffs, often part of alvar ecosystems, also support a range of mosses, liverworts, and two rare cliffbrake ferns that depend on calcium-rich rock for survival. ESEA lists gastony’s cliffbrake as endangered.
The Interlake is more than just beautiful beaches and prairie—it’s a vital refuge for species struggling to survive. From the tiny piping plover to the majestic trumpeter swan, each plays a role in the ecosystem we all share. But they can’t protect themselves from the threats they face—we can.
You can make a difference by learning more about local wildlife, supporting conservation programs, protecting natural habitats, and advocating for stronger environmental protections. Even small actions—like spreading awareness—can help ensure these neighbours remain part of our community for generations to come.