Respectful Wildlife
Viewing Practices

Give wildlife plenty of space. Binoculars and spotting scopes allow you to view wildlife without getting too close. Approach wildlife slowly, quietly, and indirectly. Always give animals an avenue for retreat.

Try to view animals without changing their behavior. Avoid using calls or devices that attract wildlife. Resist the temptation to throw rocks to see a flock fly. Remember — harassing wildlife is illegal.

Be respectful of nesting and denning areas, rookeries, and calving grounds. Well-meaning but intrusive visitors may cause parents to flee, leaving young vulnerable to the elements or predators. Stay on designated trails whenever possible.

Leave “orphaned” or sick animals alone. Young animals that appear alone usually have parents waiting nearby.

Restrain pets or leave them at home. They may startle, chase, or even kill wildlife.

Let animals eat their natural foods. Sharing your sandwich may get animals hooked on handouts; it may even harm their digestive systems. These animals may eventually lose their fear of cars, campers, or even poachers.

Learn to recognize signs of alarm. These are sometimes subtle. Leave if an animal shows them.

Remote Travel Tips

• Research and plan your trip carefully. Some of the most exciting wildlife viewing opportunities in Alaska occur in isolated, remote areas with few, if any, amenities. Contact the State of Alaska Travel and Vacation Information for general information and the agency noted under “Contact” in the site descriptions of this book for more specific information. Make reservations early; services may be limited.
• Dress appropriately and bring layers of warm, waterproof clothing. Always carry supplies to last longer than you have planned to stay. Much Alaska travel is weather dependent and the weather may change quickly and drastically; you may be temporarily stranded. Pack spares: tires, money, food, film, etc. When in the wilderness, carry emergency survival gear — such as waterproof matches, fire starter, and a space blanket — separate from your main backpack.
• Recognize your limitations. Consider guided tours for areas of special challenge. Make sure someone you trust knows where you are and when you are planning to come back, so that they can alert authorities if you fail to return. Carry standard first aid equipment, and learn how to recognize and treat hypothermia.
• Respect the culture and privacy of Alaska Native peoples and their land. Recognize that fishing and hunting camps you may come across are essential to local residents' subsistence way of life.
• Bring insect repellant, “bug jackets,” and/or head nets. Alaska is famous for its mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and other biting insects.
• Do not attempt to hike across mudflats or glaciers. These can be treacherous. Speak with authorities before trying to negotiate these types of terrain. On saltwater outings, always carry a tide table.
• Purify water taken from streams and rivers. Although water may appear pristine, treatment is still recommended.