Swans, snow geese, eagles, bears, moose, caribou, wolves, sea otters, and whales are just some of the wildlife that can be viewed in Alaska. Witnessing these animals in their natural habitat can be more rewarding than watching them on television, reading about them, or looking at illustrations. Some wildlife viewing experiences also have a sense of danger that adds to the adventure. Avoid real danger by taking necessary precautions to safely view Alaskan wildlife.
Begin preparing for a safe wildlife viewing experience before you leave by gathering some information. Contact wildlife agencies and obtain information regarding wildlife areas. Checking the weather report for the wildlife area will help you plan what to wear and what to bring. Inquiring about hunting seasons, and the safety measures for each, can help you avoid becoming a target.
Dress and pack appropriately for your adventure. Light layers will allow you to be prepared for the range of weather conditions that occur in Alaska. A map, compass, and first aid kit may also come in handy. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and sturdy socks with shoes or boots that are both comfortable and functional. If you plan to hike or camp you will need a backpack or daypack. Avoid dehydration by packing plenty of water, and if you’re camping, make sure to bring enough food. For any length of trip, binoculars, spotting scopes, and field guides can enhance your experience, but don’t let them distract you from awareness of your surroundings.
Always tell someone who is staying behind where you are going and when you expect to return. Take a buddy or go with a group, but leave pets that will hinder your viewing at home. Any trip into the wilderness is safer when you are not alone.
Once you have arrived at your destination, observe posted rules and use common sense. For example, rules regarding trespassing, forbidding littering, and requesting that you don’t feed that animals are for your benefit as well as the wildlife’s. In addition to observing “no littering” and “do not feed the animals” postings, avoid attracting dangerous wildlife by refraining from leaving food or beverages unattended and keeping your backpack and gear with you at all times. Don’t take other unnecessary risks like straying to far from trails or trying to get an animal to react for a picture. Above all, use your common sense in order to stay safe. If something seems dangerous, it probably is.
Don’t disturb Alaska’s wildlife or habitat. This allows the wildlife to behave normally without distractions rather than respond to your presence. The wildlife will likely sense your presence, but calling attention to yourself and potentially irritating wildlife is never wise. It is best to allow wildlife to merely sense your presence and keep from surprising them. If animals appear jumpy or stressed stay quietly where you are, or move away slowly. Be especially careful near animals with young. Avoid potentially dangerous wildlife like bears and moose by keeping your distance. Getting to close to dangerous wildlife will frighten the animals, interrupt their natural behavior, and put you at risk. If you’ve sighted a bear, refrain from panicking or running because a bear may be startled and feel compelled to chase you.
Be safe while viewing wildlife in Alaska, and you are sure to find that a glimpse of Alaska’s wildlife is ample reward for taking precautions and treating Alaska’s wildlife and habitat respectfully.
