The Tantramar Marshes

The Tantramar Marshes are among the most remarkable landscapes in Atlantic Canada. Stretching across the Isthmus of Chignecto between southeastern New Brunswick and northern Nova Scotia, these vast tidal wetlands have shaped the history, culture, and identity of the region for centuries.

Twice each day, the immense tides of the Bay of Fundy influence the marshes, creating an ever-changing landscape of winding waterways, expansive grasses, dramatic skies, and extraordinary light. No two visits are ever quite the same.

The name Tantramar is believed to come from the Acadian French word tintamarre, meaning “great noise” or “din”—a reference to the incredible chorus of thousands of migratory birds that gather here each year.

For generations, the marshes have supported both people and wildlife. The Mi’kmaq have lived in and travelled through this landscape for thousands of years. Later, Acadian settlers transformed sections of the tidal marsh into fertile farmland by constructing an extensive network of dykes and aboiteaux, many of which still influence the landscape today.

Today, the marshes remain one of Atlantic Canada’s most important ecological areas. They provide critical habitat for hundreds of species of birds, including Canada Geese, Great Blue Herons, Northern Harriers, Bald Eagles, and the world-famous flocks of Semipalmated Sandpipers that gather nearby at Johnson’s Mills during late summer migration.