A large North American Elk bull can reach 500-kilograms, making it the second largest animal in the deer family in Canada. Males can live up to 14 years, while females can live up to 24 years. Elk cows can reach weights up to 250-kg. Elk once roamed from Quebec to B.C., but hunting, habitat loss and other factors caused their numbers to drastically decline by 1900. Elk are sociable animals and are most typically found in herds.
500
Lake sturgeon are the largest freshwater fish in northern Ontario and females can live up to 150 years. Males can live to about 55 years. They are a threatened species in Ontario. They can grow to lengths over two-metres and reach weights up to 180-kilograms. Lake sturgeon have shark-like features such as a cartilaginous skeleton and an extra fin at the back to help it maneuver known as a caudal fin. They are omnivores eating plants and animals.
150
2,355,200
Polar Bear Provincial Park is the largest park in the province. It is home to polar bears, moose, seals and beluga whales. The park occupies land on the western shore of Hudson Bay. There are no visitors’ facilities. Landing permits must be obtained in advance for each of the park’s four airstrips. The only evidence of human habitation in the park is an abandoned radar station, part of a former military defence line. Visitors to Polar Bear should be prepared for any eventuality. They should bring at least one week’s extra supplies in case their departure is delayed due to bad weather.