For many travelers, Alaska has come to be defined by its spectacular wildlife. Images of lumbering brown bears, breaching humpback whales, or bald eagles snatching salmon from a stream have come to symbolize the wild spirit of the United States' largest state. Alaskan wildlife is diverse and truly wild: look out on your cruise or tour for some of Alaska's most famous inhabitants.
Bears
Grizzly bear family
Alaska is home to both black bears (Ursus americanus) and grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis). Nearly 98 percent of the United States' grizzly bears live in Alaska. They are found throughout the state, but are salmon hungry, so some of the best places to look for grizzlies are in salmon country in the southwestern region of the state and along the coast of the Gulf of Alaska. Black bears, which actually range in color from blue-black to cinnamon brown to even a rare creamy white, are usually spotted inland, in forested areas. Unlike the larger grizzlies, which are adapted to plains habitats, black bears are excellent climbers, with curving claws well-adapted to scaling trees. Kodiak bears (Ursus arctos middendorffi) are a subspecies of the grizzly and are found only on the Kodiak archipelago. At 1,500 pounds, they are the largest recognized subspecies of brown bears. In the sea ice of the Arctic region, the lucky traveler might have the chance to spot the elusive, brilliant white polar bear (Ursus maritimus). All bears should be observed from a distance of at least 100 yards (90 meters).
Moose
Moose found on an Alaska wildlife tour
Moose are found throughout the state, except in the extreme north. As the largest extant deer species, moose are striking figures in the vast landscape. The Alaskan subspecies of moose is the largest of North American moose: a bull can weigh up to 1,600 lbs (725 kg). Their mass, combined with their unique palmate antlers, makes the moose an impressive animal and a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts. Travelers have spotted moose wandering within city limits, along highways, railways, and in the state's numerous parks and reserves. The Kenai Peninsula has a moose refuge, and this wildlife sanctuary is an excellent place to observe these large, horse-sized deer. Be sure to keep your distance: these massive animals can run as fast as 35 miles (56 km) per hour!
Whales
A humpback whale breaches from Alaskan waters
Whales are so common in Alaska that some sightseeing tours market a "whale sighting guarantee." While we wouldn't necessarily go that far - sometimes it just doesn't work out - large populations of multiple species do converge in Alaskan waters each summer, feeding on the nutrient-rich waters off the coast and providing plenty of opportunities to observe their fascinating behaviors. Humpback whales spend the summer feeding in the Gulf of Alaska, and can also be spotted throughout the Inside Passage, in Glacier Bay, Prince William Sound, and in the waters around the Kodiak Islands. Distinctive black and white orcas are also commonly spotted in large groups in Southeast Alaska, where resident pods feed on the state's famous salmon. Smaller belugas are found in Cook Inlet and the Turnagain Arm near Anchorage, while bowhead whales feed in Alaska's icy Arctic waters in the northern region of the state. Look for whales throughout the summer: while these majestic marine mammals are active in Alaskan waters from May through September, your best chances of spotting them will be between June and August.
Other Marine Mammals
Sea otter spotting on an Alaska wildlife tour
Whales aren't the only marine mammals that make their homes in and around Alaska's waterways. Sea otters are a universal favorite for their playful manner and curious personality. Adult sea otters reach roughly 4.5 ft (1.3 m) in length and are frequently seen in kelp beds and along the coasts of Prince William Sound. A variety of pinnipeds can be found in Alaskan waters, including Steller's sea lions and Harbor seals. The state's Bering and Chukchi coasts are the only places in North America to view the Pacific walrus. These huge animals can weigh 4000 lbs (1800 kg), and both males and females grow the distinctive tusks, which they use for fighting and maneuvering their massive bodies out of the water.
Birds
A Bald Eagle catches a fish.
Thousands of birds nest, breed, migrate, and inhabit Alaska's coasts, prairies, and mountains. In June, the wide variety of songbirds have nothing but praises to sing as they busy themselves with courtships and preparing for new hatchlings. Iconic bald eagles circle the coasts and streams where salmon are abundant, while golden eagles search for small rodents inland, particularly in and around Denali National Park. Other popular birds in Alaska include loons, owls, swans, puffins, and the state bird, the ptarmigan, which has the curious ability to change its plumage between white in the winter and brown in the summer months.
Where and When to See Alaskan Wildlife
National Parks
Alaska’s national parks are some of the best places to see wildlife in their natural setting. In Denali National Park, summer is an ideal time for spotting grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and Dall sheep, particularly from late May to early September. Over in Kenai Fjords National Park, the best time to visit is late spring through summer, when you can see whales, sea lions, puffins, and even orcas along the coast.
Wilderness Lodges
Staying at a remote wilderness lodge gives you a quieter, more up-close wildlife experience. Many lodges are located near rivers, coastlines, or forests, where bears, bald eagles, and moose are common sightings. Late spring and summer are great for land animals, while fall is especially good for bear viewing as they prepare for winter.
Coastal Areas & Rivers
Alaska’s coastlines and rivers are wildlife hotspots. Salmon runs from July to September attract bears and eagles, while coastal waters are best for whale watching from May to August. If you’re hoping to see marine life and land animals in one trip, summer is usually the sweet spot.
Tips for a Successful Alaskan Wildlife Viewing Experience
Wildlife spotting in Alaska is more enjoyable when you plan and follow a few simple rules. Guided tours are a great option, especially if you’re new to the area, since local guides know where animals are often seen and how to keep everyone safe. Bringing binoculars and the right camera gear helps you see animals clearly without needing to get too close. It’s also smart to check local park websites or visitor centres for seasonal updates, so you know what wildlife is active during your visit.
Helpful Reminders:
Join guided tours for safety and local knowledge
Bring binoculars and camera gear to view wildlife from a distance
Follow wildlife safety rules and never feed wild animals
Keep your distance: stay at least 25 yards (22 metres) from most wildlife and 100 yards (90 metres) from larger animals like bears
Check seasonal wildlife updates using park websites or local resources
When unsure, stay farther back and ask a ranger or your guide for advice
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Alaskan Wildlife FAQs
What animals live in Alaska?
Alaska is home to bears, moose, caribou, wolves, foxes, bison, mountain goats, whales, seals, sea otters, bald eagles, and many types of salmon.
What are Alaska’s Big 5 wildlife?
The Big 5 usually refers to brown (grizzly) bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves, the animals that many visitors hope to see on a trip.
What animal is only found in Alaska?
No large land animal lives only in Alaska, but the Kodiak bear is unique to the Kodiak Archipelago and is one of the largest bears in the world.
What is the apex predator in Alaska?
The brown bear is considered Alaska’s top predator, with no natural enemies as an adult. Wolves also sit near the top of the food chain in many areas.
