Tancook Island is known for its extraordinary abundance of wildlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Hundreds of bird species have been documented here, and the island’s growing deer population adds to its peaceful rural charm. Remarkably, Tancook has no bears, foxes, coyotes, raccoons, porcupines, squirrels, or domestic rats, creating an exceptionally safe environment for small animals and hobby farms. Many island families enjoy keeping chickens, runner ducks, goats, and sheep, and you may even catch a glimpse of our one remaining Highland cow, whose little herd called Tancook home for more than 20 years. This calm, predator free setting offers a rare opportunity for anyone dreaming of a simple, natural, and sustainable island lifestyle k b v .
Community Organizations
The community on Big Tancook Island is deeply rooted in collaboration and volunteerism — it’s a small place, but one with a big heart. One of the most vital organizations is the Big Tancook Island Emergency Response Association (BTIERA), a registered charity made up of volunteer firefighters and medical first responders who operate essential emergency services on the island. The Tancook Island Recreation Centre, built and maintained by volunteers, serves as the social hub for the island — hosting dances, events, youth programs, and community gatherings. Even local education is a civic effort: Big Tancook Elementary School, one of Canada’s last one-room schoolhouses, thrives with strong community support and volunteer involvement. These organizations reflect the island’s commitment to self-reliance, resilience, and togetherness — a quality that earned Big Tancook its Lieutenant Governor’s Community Spirit Award.
Tancook Islands Marine Field Station
Marine Research & Conservation
Big Tancook Island is home to the Tancook Islands Marine Field Station, a growing research hub led by marine biologists studying the rich ecosystems of Mahone Bay. Graduate students and researchers live on the island for extended periods, working closely with local fishers to track great white sharks, monitor seal activity, and study shifting marine habitats. Their presence adds an exciting energy to the community and highlights the ecological importance of the waters surrounding Tancook. The field station brings together science, conservation, and traditional local knowledge—making the island not only a beautiful place to live, but a meaningful one at the forefront of Atlantic marine research.
Tancook Beachside Home For Sale 