Species status review

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) periodically reviews the status of protected species in the state to determine whether each species warrants its current listing or deserves to be delisted or reclassified.

State wildlife managers begin the review process by seeking information and data from the public, including non-governmental groups, universities, private researchers and naturalists, on each species. The public input period typically lasts one year.

WDFW uses the public information to update the status of each species and make a recommendation about the species' listing classification. Wildlife managers then solicit public comment on the draft status reviews for at least 90 days. WDFW staff ultimately present their recommendations to the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission, a citizen panel appointed by the governor, at a public hearing.

Awaiting commission action

The commission will make a determination on the listing classification of the species listed below. Check the commission webpage for public hearing dates and locations.

  • None available at this time

Draft status reviews available for public review

Tentative schedule to present findings to the Fish and Wildlife Commission

Species Date
Northern Spotted Owl 2023
Streaked Horned Lark 2023
Killer Whale 2023
Taylor's Checkerspot 2023
Bald Eagle 2023
Marbled Murrelett 2023
Canada Lynx 2023
Peregrine Falcon 2023
Sandhill Crane 2023
Green & Loggerhead Sea Turtles 2023
Leatherback Sea Turtle 2023
Yellow Billed Cuckoo 2023
Fisher 2023
Blue, Fin, Right, Sei, Sperm Whales 2023
Columbian Sharp Tailed Grouse 2023
Pygmy Rabbit 2023
Sea Otter

2023

Oregon Spotted Frog 2023
Western Gray Squirrel 2023
Western Pond Turtle 2023
Grizzly Bear 2024
Oregon Silverspot 2024
Tufted Puffin 2024
Sage Grouse 2026