Canadian Wildlife Federation: fauna

Animals At-A-Glance

Browse through a few of our Canadian species in these "At A Glance" fact sheets. Each page has basic information on some of our Canadian wildlife, with links to detailed, reputable sources such as Hinterland Who's Who and the Government of Canada. Don't see a species you need? Comments or questions? Let us know!

White-Crowned Sparrow

2025-12-05

The most distinctive feature of this relatively large sparrow, as reflected in its name, is the striped crown. Its grey head is crowned with conspicuous black and white stripes. The white-crowned sparrow lacks the yellow spot near each eye and the white throat of the white-throated sparrow, a close relative. This bird is approximately 17 - 19 cm in size. Loud scuffling in the bushes often signals the presence of this spirited bird. Using both of its rather large feet, it vigorously scratches among the leaf litter in search of food.
White Shark

2025-12-05

The (great) white shark is the most famed of shark species, known worldwide for its large size, predatory nature and reputation for occasionally attacking humans. It is recognizable by its immense size, conspicuously black eye and the sharp contrast between its backside and underside colouration changing from dark grey, or even black, to white. It has a heavy spindle-shaped body, a moderately long conical snout, and large triangular teeth with blade-like serrations.
Wood Turtle

2025-12-05

The Wood Turtle’s upper shell has raised, pyramidal shapes with visible concentric growth rings that resembles wood. There is distinct orange colouring on its neck and forelegs.
Wool carder bees

2025-12-05

Medium-sized bees (eight to 17 mm), Anthidium are robust, black-and-yellow bees. They are not very common in Canada, only five species present, of which two were recently introduced from Europe (in the last decades). Unlike most bee species, males are bigger than females. They can be observed hovering in front of flowers.