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.

American badger

In this section

Species in Washington
Looking to learn more about a specific fish or wildlife species in Washington? Start here.
Ecosystems in Washington
Learn about the variety of ecosystems found in Washington that provide habitat for fish and wildlife.
Living with wildlife
Living in Washington means living with wildlife. Whether you've found a baby bird out of the nest or are dealing with deer damaging your backyard, WDFW is here to help when you cross paths with the state's diverse wildlife.
At-risk species
WDFW is responsible for managing endangered, threatened, and otherwise at-risk species in the state.
Habitat recovery and protection
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is hard at work helping protect and conserve fish and wildlife habitats in the state.
Aquatic invasive species
If you work or play in Washington’s many waterways, you may be unknowingly spreading invasive species destructive to our state’s environment and economy.
Wildlife diseases
From elk hoof disease to white-nose syndrome in bats, WDFW tracks and responds to reports of disease affecting wildlife in our state.
Marine toxic contaminants
The Toxics Biological Observation System (TBiOS) team monitors and tracks toxic contaminants in Puget Sound and on Washington's Pacific coast.
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Species news & important dates

pika on rocks
Hike and help pikas

If you plan on hiking this summer, consider helping us collect data about pikas! Your observations could help biologists better monitor pika populations, which is critical for understanding how to protect these critters.

Learn how you can help pikas
Orca jumping
Be Whale Wise

Boaters can help protect endangered Southern Resident killer whales by going slow and giving them space to find food. 

Watch our video
More news

Conservation starts here

Climate change and its impact on hunting, angling, and other recreational pursuits
Climate change affects everything in nature: fish, wildlife, habitat, ecosystems, us. As stewards, we must act now to protect the places and activities we love.
western pond turtle
Western pond turtles released into the wild
Partners collaborate to raise and release endangered western pond turtles
Learn more
garter snake in grass
Snake fungal disease FAQ
Snakes perform important ecosystem services such as controlling populations of small mammals and enhancing biodiversity.
Learn more

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