Exploring Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve in Newfoundland and Labrador
If you’re searching for your next wildlife photography adventure, it’s time to add Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve to your bucket list. Set on the south west tip of Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula, this site promises a visual overload for bird lovers and photographers alike. After a scenic two-hour drive from St. John’s—passing through windswept, sparsely populated stretches—the Cape reveals itself as a haven for some of the Atlantic’s most dramatic avian spectacles.
Getting There and What to Expect
The journey itself is part of the adventure. Make sure to fill your gas tank before leaving St. John’s, as the route offers few communities or services. Packing a hearty lunch is also wise; food options are few and far between, and you’ll want to spend your time focused on the Reserve rather than searching for a café.
Arriving at Cape St. Mary’s, you’ll be greeted by a windswept, barren landscape and a sense of remoteness. Access to the Reserve is via a single lane road, adding to it’s wild charm. Start your visit at the Interpretation Centre, where you can learn more about the Reserve’s unique ecology before heading out on the trail. For more about the reserve click here.
The Walk to Bird Rock
The 1.25-km trail from the Interpretation Centre is flat and easy, offering stunning views of emerald waters, plunging cliffs, and distant waves crashing along the coast. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the fog rolling in—a challenge for visibility, but often a gift for mood and atmosphere in your photographs. The main draw for photographers is Bird Rock, a massive sea stack just 40 metres from shore.
Even before you reach Bird Rock, you can take in the distant spectacle: thousands of Northern Gannets, Common Murres, Razorbills, and other species creating a cacophony of sound and motion. The scene is nothing short of mesmerizing, and it’s easy to lose yourself in the flurry of wings, dives, and calls.
Bird Rock: A Photographer’s Playground
At the end of the trail, a rocky outcrop gives you an ideal vantage point facing Bird Rock. Here, you’ll find hundreds of nesting Gannets directly in front of you—so close you might feel you’re part of the colony. The action is non-stop: birds diving, feeding, and tending their young. It’s a challenge to focus, with so much unfolding at once, but that’s what makes this spot so compelling.
From this perch, gaze up and down the coast. On clear days, the sweeping ocean views are breathtaking, and in the distance, you’ll spot the Interpretation Centre—a reminder of the path you’ve taken.
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip for the summer months, when breeding activity is at its peak. Newfoundland weather can be unpredictable—fog and rain are common—but don’t let this deter you. Some of the most dramatic images come when the weather changes in an instant. On my visit, visibility was reduced to 300 metres by thick fog, only to clear spectacularly as the day went on.
Photography Tips for Bird Rock
- Sit Down and Watch: The sheer volume of activity can be overwhelming. Spend time observing before you start shooting. Ask yourself: What moments stand out? What behaviours or interactions catch your eye?
- Shutter Speed and Focus: To freeze the motion of flying Gannets, set your shutter speed no slower than 1/1000th of a second. If your camera supports focus tracking, use it— the action here is relentless and unpredictable.
- Gear Up for the Outdoors: Newfoundland’s coast is famous for changing weather. Pack a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, and a toque for chilly days. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards—you’ll need them!
- Choose Your Lens Wisely: Although Bird Rock is close, a 400mm (or longer) lens will help you isolate individual birds or unique moments. A monopod is handy for stability, especially if you’re moving along the ledge.
Final Thoughts
Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve is, quite simply, a must-visit for any wildlife photographer. The density of birds, the dramatic landscape, and the ever-changing elements all combine for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in every direction. Take your time, soak it all in, and let your creativity soar alongside the Gannets. Happy shooting
My Cape St. Mary’s Gallery
Of course I ended up with about two thousand shots from my time at the Cape. Typical of wildlife photography most of those are in the garbage bin, many others are only so so. But there were some survivors, shown below are some of my favorites.
My Gallery
For more shots of Newfoundland, check out my Newfoundland Collections, here.
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