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
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Looking to learn more about a specific fish or wildlife species in Washington? Start here.
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Learn about the variety of ecosystems found in Washington that provide habitat for fish and wildlife.
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Biodiversity supports all life in Washington and across the globe, from open wild spaces to backyard gardens.
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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.
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WDFW is responsible for managing endangered, threatened, and otherwise at-risk species in the state.
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is hard at work helping protect and conserve fish and wildlife habitats in the state.
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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.
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Earth's climate is changing, and Washington is feeling the effects. WDFW has adopted a strategic approach to deal with threats of climate change.
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From elk hoof disease to white-nose syndrome in bats, WDFW tracks and responds to reports of disease affecting wildlife in our state.
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Washington is home to a variety of amphibians (salamanders, frogs, and toads) and reptiles (turtles, lizards, and snakes).
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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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Wildlife can be found anywhere in the state of Washington. From backyard chickadees to the orcas of the Salish Sea, there is a spectacular array of wildlife to witness.
Species news & important dates
The WDAC advises WDFW and the director primarily on matters relating to wildlife Species of Greatest Conservation Need and/or wildlife species classified as endangered, threatened, or sensitive in Washington.
Always contact a permitted wildlife rehabilitator before attempting to rescue any wildlife, and follow the tips in this blog for what to do if you encounter common young wildlife on your property or in your community.
Conservation starts here
With summer boating seasons ramping up, boaters are reminded they must stay 1,000 yards away from Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW).
WDFW recently adopted new rules, effective May 17, 2025, prohibiting certain wildlife feeding to help keep Washington’s wildlife healthy.
Multi-year partnership brings together agencies, tribes, and community members to address flood damage reduction and aquatic species restoration in the Chehalis Basin.
