Species

Our Biological Diversity

Diverse and abundant wildlife are central to Alaska’s economy and people. Over 1,000 vertebrate species are found in the state, sometimes in huge numbers. More than 900,000 caribou roam in 32 herds across vast tundra landscapes. On the Copper River Delta alone, five to eight million shorebirds stop to forage and rest each spring on their way to arctic breeding grounds. Alaska has 32 species of carnivores, more than any other state.

Most of Alaska’s fish and wildlife populations are considered healthy. In the rest of the nation, more than 400 species are listed as threatened or endangered. In Alaska, only 20 species are listed this way.

Biology 101

Find Species Information

  • Animals
    Life history, range, habitat, uses, and more.
  • Invasive
    Which ones to look for, how to report, negative impacts, prevention & more.
  • Pets & Livestock
    What you need to know about bringing any kind of animal into Alaska, or keeping a wild animal as a pet.
  • Special Status
    Endangered, threatened, extinct and other species of concern.
  • Living With Wildlife
    Safety around wildlife; attracting and deterring animals; wildlife and pets; contacts and more.
  • Diseases and Parasites
    Learn about diseases common or important to Alaska's wildlife.
  • Wildlife Action Plan
    Alaska's species conservation plan and how to become a partner.
Photo of a North Pacific Right Whale

Did You Know?

Whalers gave the North Pacific right whale its name based on it being the "right whale" to hunt: it was large, slow and floated at the surface when killed.

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