Managing Wildlife Populations
North Puget Lowlands Swan Surveys: With the help of numerous partners and volunteers, Districts 14 and 13 wildlife biologists completed annual surveys of wintering populations of swans throughout the lowland areas in Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, Island, San Juan counties, and the Snoqualmie Valley in King County.
Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program Flights: District Wildlife Biologist Licence participated in multiple survey flights as an observer in training with Waterfowl Section and District 15 biologists. These long-term annual surveys provide population trend monitoring for a variety of marine waterfowl, birds, and mammals throughout the Puget Sound.
Harmful Algal Blooms and Wildlife Meeting: Region 4 wildlife biologists, wildlife health staff members, Whatcom County Health Department, and a Portland State University researcher gathered on Jan. 24 to discuss harmful algal blooms and their impacts to wildlife. Discussions centered on known local wildlife impacts, research priorities, and potential funding opportunities.
Providing Conflict Prevention and Education
Cougar Sightings in Concrete: District Wildlife Biologist Waddell spoke at a Concrete town council meeting about recent cougar sightings in the Concrete area. He provided some basic information on cougar biology and emphasized that cougar attacks on humans are very rare. Additionally, he provided meeting attendees with steps to prevent attracting a cougar (e.g., keeping domestic cats inside, avoid feeding deer, and practicing good husbandry of livestock) and tips if they encounter a cougar or feel that a cougar is a threat to them or their property. Biologist Waddell encouraged residents to visit the WDFW webpage on cougars and to view cougar-related videos on the WDFW YouTube page.
Conserving Natural Landscapes
Little Squalicum Estuary Restoration: District Wildlife Biologist Waddell volunteered to assist with planting vegetation at the Little Squalicum Estuary restoration project in Bellingham. This project will restore almost five acres of habitat, including 2.4 acres of estuary. This project will improve fish passage and provide high quality habitat for fish and other species. The Saturday volunteer project turned out to be a beautiful day. More than 230 volunteers planted over 4,000 upland and aquatic plants.
