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

Looking to learn more about a specific fish or wildlife species in Washington? Start here.
Learn about the variety of ecosystems found in Washington that provide habitat for fish and 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.
WDFW is responsible for managing endangered, threatened, and otherwise at-risk species in the state.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is hard at work helping protect and conserve fish and wildlife habitats in the state.
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.
From elk hoof disease to white-nose syndrome in bats, WDFW tracks and responds to reports of disease affecting wildlife in our state.

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

The Toxics Biological Observation System (TBiOS) team monitors and tracks toxic contaminants in Puget Sound and on Washington's Pacific coast.
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

A western gray squirrel sitting on a fallen dead log in the forest
WDFW seeks comment on status review for western gray squirrel

WDFW is seeking public input on a draft periodic status review for western gray squirrel that includes a recommendation to re-classify the squirrel as a state endangered species. The public comment period closes May 10.

Aerial view of Yakima River delta
Share your feedback: Yakima River delta habitat restoration

In partnership with WDFW, the Army Corps of Engineers is looking for comments on a draft report that outlines proposed next steps to restore the Yakima River delta.

Conservation starts here

Aerial view of the Duckabush Estuary
Estimating the economic benefits of restoring the Duckabush Estuary

A recently released report asserts that restoring the Duckabush Estuary would protect and generate up to $250 million in economic value.

Dike removal with heavy equipment at Fir Island Farm Unit of Skagit Wildlife Area.
Estuary restoration projects in North Puget Sound

Restoring estuary habitats on WDFW lands.

Sunset on Puget Sound
Applications open for volunteer advisory group on hydraulic regulations that protect fish

Apply for one of up to seven open positions by April 7.

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