Species & Habitats

Wildlife in Washington face a wide range of threats, from disease and invasive species to declining habitat and climate change. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is dedicated to conserving and protecting the state's wildlife -- including endangered and other at-risk species -- from these threats. Learn about the work we're doing to protect Washington habitats and what to do if you encounter an orphaned or problematic animal.

Five birds standing on a log in water.
Photo by WDFW

Species news & important dates

White-tailed deer buck moving through tall vegetation.
Photo by WDFW
Public comment periods open for new CWD rule proposals

WDFW is accepting public comment on proposed rules meant to limit the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD), including a proposal to implement a statewide deer, elk, and moose feeding ban in Washington.

Moose
Photo by WDFW
Monitoring northeast Washington's moose population

The second year of a moose monitoring project in northeast Washington is underway between Mt. Spokane and the Canadian border to gather data on survival, movement, and habitat use.

Conservation starts here

A pod of orca including a juvenile.
Photo by Dante Aubert
Boaters must stay 1,000 yards away from Southern Resident killer whales under expanded rules in Washington waters

The new rules, effective Jan. 1, 2025, are intended to reduce vessel noise and allow the whales to forage and rest with minimal disturbance.

Northern Leopard Frog
Photo by Emily Grabowsky
Restoring balance: Northern leopard frog and northwestern pond turtle recovery efforts

Learn more about ongoing efforts by WDFW and partners to recover northern leopard frog and northwestern pond turtle populations in the state.

Aerial view of Satsop River
Photo by WDFW
What is the Chehalis Basin Strategy?

Multi-year partnership brings together agencies, tribes, and community members to address flood damage reduction and aquatic species restoration in the Chehalis Basin.

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