18 images Created 15 Nov 2014
Bears, Moose and Wolves
The marine and terrestrial eco-systems of Southeast Alaska support an abundance of wildlife. Five species of Pacific salmon return to the many rivers of the Tongass National Forest to spawn; they provide a feeding bonanza for the bears, bald eagles, ravens and other wildlife, and replenish the forest with their decaying bodies. Wolves and Sitka black-tail deer find a safe haven in the extensive forests, and on the mainland moose are abundant in the river valleys and mountain goats are found above the tree line. Brown and black bears are found on the mainland but do not inhabit the same islands offshore. River otters have adapted to exploiting the sea for foraging and in many areas sea otters have become re-established after almost being hunted to extinction.
Many migratory birds spend the summer months nesting along the archipelago and the rich waters abound with many different species of seabirds.
Apart from the migrating humpback whales the most prominent marine mammals in the waters of Southeast Alaska are harbour seals and Steller sea lions, which are both preyed upon by roaming pods of transient orcas. Harbour porpoises and Dall porpoises can also be observed.
Many migratory birds spend the summer months nesting along the archipelago and the rich waters abound with many different species of seabirds.
Apart from the migrating humpback whales the most prominent marine mammals in the waters of Southeast Alaska are harbour seals and Steller sea lions, which are both preyed upon by roaming pods of transient orcas. Harbour porpoises and Dall porpoises can also be observed.
