Living with wildlife

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Kristen Hartshorn

In Washington, even the state's urban hubs are just a short drive from mountains, woods, and wilderness. And with that wilderness comes wildlife, in residents' backyards, crossing roads, and sharing trails.

Understanding these animals is key to reducing human/wildlife conflicts. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife offers a wide range of information designed to minimize conflicts between humans and wildlife, as well as attracting beneficial wildlife and helping residents better understand the animals in their backyards.

Featured Video - Living with Black Bears:

  • Habitat at Home Program

    This program is designed to help you manage wildlife around your home and property.

  • Backyard wildlife photos

    Celebrate backyard wildlife -- Share your best animal, habitat, or landscape photos with us to share on social media.

  • Nuisance wildlife

    Wildlife is everywhere in Washington -- here's how to stop conflict before it happens, and what to do when it's already begun.

  • Injured or orphaned wildlife

    If you find a baby bird out of the nest or a deer fawn on its own, know whether it's better to intervene or leave it alone.

  • Dangerous wildlife

    Some wildlife species are potentially dangerous, especially as Washington’s human population continues to expand into traditional habitat.

  • Species fact sheets

    Learn how to avoid conflicts with common animals found in urban and suburban areas.

  • Feeding wildlife

    Many people may be tempted to feed deer and other wildlife, but doing so can easily do more harm than good.

  • Snags - The Wildlife Tree

    Standing dead and dying trees, called “snags” or “wildlife trees,” are important for wildlife in both natural and landscaped settings.