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.

In this section
Species news & important dates

Black bears have begun to emerge from their winter dens hungry and are in search of calories after five months of not eating.

The Leque Island Restoration Project restored 250 acres of tidal marsh habitat. This restoration provides important estuary habitat for young Chinook salmon, shorebirds, waterfowl, and a variety of other fish and wildlife.
Conservation starts here
Only about 100 Western snowy plovers can be found in Washington, and only in Grays Harbor and Pacific counties.

Learn what's next for the Department's new 10-Year Recreation Strategy for WDFW-managed Lands.

By following Be Whale Wise regulations, you can help make a difference for Southern Resident killer whales.