Ecological reserve overview
Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve is legally designated (under the Species at Risk Act) as Critical Habitat for Northern Resident Killer Whales. As such, this area is a sanctuary for killer whales and all boaters (motorized and non-motorized) are expected to refrain from entering the reserve to reduce disturbance to these whales while they feed, socialize and use rubbing beaches.
To support its role as a sanctuary, the upland portion of Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve is closed to all uses or entry.
Ecological reserves protect special natural ecosystems, and support research and education. They are not intended for outdoor recreation.
Advisories
This Ecological Reserve is located on the Johnstone Strait coastline, 10km south east of Telegraph Cove, Vancouver Island.
Ecological reserve and activity maps
Any maps listed are for information only. They may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
Learn more about this ecological reserve
Ecological reserve details
- Date established: June 17, 1982
- Size: 1,715 hectares (467 ha upland and 1,248 ha foreshore)
- Biogeoclimatic zone:
- Coastal Western Hemlock
- Terrestrial ecosection:
- Johnstone Strait,
- Northern Island Mountains
- Marine ecosection:
- Johnstone Strait
Nature and culture
A detailed description of this ecological reserve is available to support education and research.
- Robson Bight (Micheal Bigg) Ecological Reserve detailed description [PDF]
- Species at Risk Recovery plan [PDF]
- Whale rules poster [PDF]
- Robson Bight brochure [PDF]
Research and educational activities require a permit.
Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples
BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.