Wildlife Watching in the Kodiak Archipelago Kodiak is a world-class destination for wildlife enthusiasts. From the tiniest tundra vole to the iconic Kodiak brown bear, the region offers extraordinary diversity—and unforgettable viewing opportunities. Whale watching in the Kodiak Archipelago is world-class. Many charter boat operators that specialize in wildlife viewing and photography will point out several varieties of whales, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, porpoises, and sea cliffs covered with nesting Blacklegged Kittiwakes and other nesting seabirds. High on everyone’s list is seeing the colorful Horned or Tufted Puffins, also known as “sea parrots,” for their large colorful beaks. Land Mammals: From Voles to Giants Indigenous mammals include red fox, ermine, river otter, and the little brown bat. Introduced species such as Sitka black-tailed deer, snowshoe hare, beaver, and the ever-chatty red squirrel are also commonly seen. Look to the mountains and you may spot a small herd of shaggy mountain goats grazing on steep ridges. And if you’re heading toward Narrow Cape, stay alert—Highland cows sometimes wander freely across the landscape, adding unexpected charm to the drive. A Birder’s Paradise Kodiak is gaining recognition among Audubon travelers, and for good reason. The archipelago’s diverse habitats—coastlines, meadows, spruce forests, offshore islands, and alpine ridges—support an incredible variety of bird species. • Bald eagles are abundant, with more than 600 nesting pairs in the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge alone. • Puffins, both Horned and Tufted, are high on every birder’s wish list. Their bright bills and expressive faces make them favorites for photographers. • Sea cliffs host colonies of Black-legged Kittiwakes, murres, and other seabirds. • Seasonal migrations bring shorebirds and songbirds that delight birders from around the world. From absolute beginners to seasoned life-listers, Kodiak offers rewarding birdwatching in every season. World-Class Marine Wildlife Viewing Whale watching in the Kodiak Archipelago is exceptional. Many charter operators specialize in wildlife viewing and photography, and a day on the water may include humpback and fin whales, orcas, sea otters, steller sea lions, harbor seals, porpoises, seabird cliffs teeming with life. Whether you’re scanning the horizon for spouts or capturing puffins in flight, the marine environment here never disappoints. Prefer to keep your feet on shore? Many beaches and coastal viewpoints offer excellent opportunities to spot whale blows and tail flukes from land. Explore Tide Pools & Coastal Life Kodiak’s beaches and tide pools are treasure troves for curious explorers. You may find: anemones, sea stars, sea urchins, jellyfish, tiny crabs, and countless other intertidal species. To learn more about the region’s aquatic life—including all five species of Pacific salmon—visit the Fisheries Research Center on Near Island. The touch tank and aquarium exhibits provide hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. For the Botanically Inclined If your passion leans toward plants rather than animals, Kodiak delivers. About 670 plant species have been identified across the island. Once you leave city limits, you’re surrounded by native flora thriving in Kodiak’s moist, mild climate. Habitats accessible from the road system include: beaches, coastal meadows, sitka spruce forests, mountain ridges. Coastal meadows bloom with wild iris, lupine, native orchids, shooting stars, wild geraniums, and wild roses. A reminder: avoid brushing against cow parsnip (locally called pushki) on sunny days—exposure can cause painful blisters. A Taste of Kodiak’s Wild Bounty Late summer and fall bring an abundance of berries, including salmonberries, blueberries, low-bush cranberries. These treats are beloved by residents, birds, and bears alike—and are a delicious reminder that on Kodiak, you’re sharing the land with wildlife. A Wild World, Waiting to Be Explored Kodiak is a place where the natural world thrives in all its forms. From world-class birding and whale watching to intimate tide pools and sweeping meadows, every corner of the archipelago offers new discoveries. Whether you’re on land or at sea, Kodiak rewards those who look closely—and those who come ready to be amazed. KODIAK.ORG | 15
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