Living with wildlife
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.
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.