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.

A robin in a tree with green leaves

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.
Amphibians and reptiles of Washington

Washington is home to a variety of amphibians (salamanders, frogs, and toads) and reptiles (turtles, lizards, and snakes).

Marine toxic contaminants
The Toxics Biological Observation System (TBiOS) team monitors and tracks toxic contaminants in Puget Sound and on Washington's Pacific coast.
Wildlife viewing
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.
Buy a license
Get involved
Report a violation

Species news & important dates

A black bear sitting in the forest, looking towards the camera with round ears perked up
Living With Black Bears

If you're in Washington, you're in bear country. One way we can coexist with bears is by not feeding them or attracting them to our homes. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/blackbears to learn how you can help.

Watch the Video
A close up of a wolf
WDFW seeks public comment on draft periodic status review for Washington wolves

WDFW asks you to submit your feedback on its draft periodic status review (PSR) for the gray wolf (Canis lupus) by Aug. 16, 2023.

Learn more
More news

Conservation starts here

Orca jumping
New legislation creates 1,000-yard vessel buffer around endangered orcas

The new distance requirements go into effect in January 2025.

Learn more
Mountain Bluebirds near nestbox
New Habitat at Home webpages

Free resources for balconies, yards, and community spaces. Create wildlife habitat in your home regardless of where you live.

Check it out
A sharp-tailed grouse dancing on a lek in a grassland
Understanding Conservation Categories for Washington Wildlife

Threatened, endangered, sensitive, protected … what does it all mean? In this blog, we’ll learn about different listing statuses for species in Washington in need of dedicated conservation action.

Learn more

Share your outdoor adventures