What animals and plants live in Quebec’s tundra, taiga, boreal forest, and temperate forest regions?

Quebec’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, determined largely by the province's climate and latitude.1

Tundra

Located north of the 56th parallel, the treeless tundra is characterized by lichen, mosses, and peat bogs. Wildlife in this region includes polar bears, foxes, and Arctic hares. Additionally, the region serves as a seasonal destination for Canada geese and snow geese.1

Taiga

Between the 56th and 52nd parallels lies the taiga, which features sheltered areas with outcroppings of fir, spruce, and various shrubs. This region is known for its roaming herds of caribou.1

Boreal Forest

South of the 52nd parallel, the boreal forest is dominated by spruce, fir, and pine. This zone supports a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, coyotes, and numerous bird and freshwater fish species.1

Temperate Forest

Found in the St. Lawrence and Ottawa river valleys, these temperate forests consist of maple, ash, beech, and oak. These areas, along with nearby waterways, are rich in biodiversity, hosting many of the same mammals and birds found in the boreal regions, as well as sea mammals like the white beluga in the St. Lawrence estuary.1