Alaska Wildlife Viewing/Photography

Alaska Wildlife Viewing/Photography...

Alaska - just the name conjures up visions of the wild, wonderful creatures of the north country. Grizzly bears - wolves - Dall sheep - caribou - moose

But there is more? much more. Offshore you can see beluga, humpback, gray and orca (killer) whales as well as porpoises, sea lions and several kinds of seals. Overhead, fly trumpter swans, bald eagles and pergrine falcons. In all Alaska is home to 105 species of mammals, 300 species of birds and 58 species of freshwater and anadromous fish, plus seven types of amphibians. With abundant wildlife viewing and beautiful landscapes, photography opportunities abound.

Alaska is a large state and some animals occur at low densities or are secretive, but learning more about how, when and where to wildlife, your chances of seeing animals in the wild will be improved.

Below we have included a list of AWRTA member companies who offer trips and adventures that offer wildlife viewing in their programs. It is important to note the virtually all AWRTA member companies offer opportunities to view wildlife across the state. Companies listed under the other Activities Lists (e.g. Ocean Charters/Water Taxis, Sea Kayaking, Small Ship Overnight Cruising, Rafting and Water Activities, Hiking/Backpacking, etc.) within the web site can be searched by region for wildlife viewing.

Choose your eco and cultural tourism provider by activity or location through AWRTA's PLAN YOUR TRIP database.

Recommended Publications and Websites...

Alaska Wildlife Viewing Guide
Annabel M. Lund & Michelle Sydeman. This guide identifies the state's best wildlife viewing areas. Includes access and travel information, viewing tips and a special section highlighting ten of Alaska's most popular viewing species.

Wildlife Notebook Series
Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game. Direct from the experts- loose leaf note book pages, one sheet for each animal. Descriptions and information on life history, habitat, food, habits, ecology, range, etc. 88 different mammals, birds and fish are included.

Mac's Field Guide to Alaskan Wildlife
11 3/4" x 7 1/2" laminated card for field use. Full color sketches of Alaska's most common seabirds, marine mammals, fish and invertebrates on one side. Land mammals and birds on the reverse.

Alaska's Bears Pocket Guide
Bill Sherwonit. This book can help you understand AlaskaÍs bears and their natural histories. Find full details on how to visit Alaska's prime bear-viewing sites and get tips for traveling safely through bear country.

The Wolf: Ecology and Behavior of an Endangered Species
L. David Mech. Written in non-technical language, this book covers much of what is known about this relatively shy animal.

Guide to Marine Mammals of Alaska
UAF/Alaska Sea Grant. Handsome field guide for fast, accurate identification and information on Alaskan marine life. Includes whales, seals, sea lions, walrus, polar bear and sea otter.

Alaska's Fish-A Guide to Selected Species
Robert Armstrong. A take along pocket guide with full color photos of nineteen freshwater and anadromous fish and fifteen saltwater fish. Learn identifying features, size, spawning habits, habitat, range and much more. The guide also lists viewing areas, species found there and best months to find them.

Alaska's Seashore Creatures. Carmen and Conrad Field
This pocket guide brings the world of marine invertebrates to life. Features over 50 spineless wonders in detailed black and white illustrations and the best places to go tidepooling in Alaska. Includes color photos and map.

Guide to the Birds of Alaska
Robert H. Armstrong. New edition-completely updated and revised. This is the only comprehensive guide to Alaska's birds and includes all 443 species of birds found in the state. Full-color photos for all bird species that occur regularly; durable lie-flat binding for all-weather field use.

*Note that most of the above publications are available through the Alaska Natural History Association at 907-271-3290.