So You Think You've Seen a Sasquatch in Seattle? A Guide to the Wild (and Not-So-Wild) Creatures of the Emerald City
Seattle: city of grunge, coffee, and...cougars? Yep, you read that right. While Seattle's urban jungle is teeming with a different kind of roar (motorcycles, mostly), there's a surprising amount of wildlife that calls the Emerald City home.
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| What Wild Animals Are In Seattle |
Not Your Average Park Pigeons: The Furry and Feathered Residents
Forget chasing pigeons for selfies (although, those aggressive seagulls by the pier are a whole other story). Seattle's got some seriously interesting critters roaming around. Here's a quick rundown of who you might bump into on your next hike, or, you know, accidentally invite into your open-air trash can:
- Majestic Mammals: Bald eagles soaring overhead? Check. Deer prancing through a greenbelt? You betcha. Watch out for: The occasional coyote, especially at night. These adaptable pups are more interested in small prey than people, but keeping your distance is always a good idea.
- Creatures of the Night (and Sometimes Day): Think raccoons are mischievous? Try a family of otters living under your dock! Seattle has a surprising bat population, and don't be surprised to see the occasional owl hooting in the darkness (or, perhaps, judging you from a tree branch).
- Scaly Surprise: Snakes are pretty rare in Seattle proper, but keep an eye out for the garter snake, a harmless little fella with a yellow stripe down its back.
Remember: While most Seattle wildlife is happy to keep to itself, it's always good practice to be respectful. Don't feed the animals (human food isn't good for them!), and admire them from a safe distance.
Is That a Killer Whale in My Kombucha? Exploring Seattle's Marine Life
Seattle's surrounded by water, so it makes sense that there would be some amazing aquatic neighbors. Here's a glimpse into the underwater world:
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
- Whaley Good Time (Probably From Afar): Orcas, or killer whales, are occasional visitors to Puget Sound. These magnificent creatures are best enjoyed from a whale watching tour, not your backyard kayak.
- Harbor Seal Spectacular: Spot harbor seals basking on rocks around the pier. Just a heads up: their barks are surprisingly loud!
- Underwater Acrobats: Salmon are a vital part of the Pacific Northwest ecosystem, and you might see them swimming upstream during spawning season.
Important Note: While harbor seals are adorable, they're wild animals. Do not approach them.
How to Live in Harmony with Seattle's Wildlife: A Crash Course
Coexisting with Seattle's creatures can be pretty easy. Here are some quick tips:
- Secure your trash: Raccoons are like furry ninjas when it comes to pilfering snacks. Use bins with tight lids and keep them away from potential climbing areas.
- Respect their space: Wild animals, no matter how cute, are unpredictable. Keep your distance and avoid approaching them.
- Enjoy the view!: Seattle's wildlife is a unique part of the city's charm. Observe them from a safe distance and appreciate the wild side of the Emerald City.
FAQ: Seattle Wildlife Edition
How to avoid a wild encounter?
Tip: Read carefully — skimming skips meaning.
Simple! Stick to well-maintained trails and parks, and be aware of your surroundings.
How to handle a close encounter with a wild animal?
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Stay calm, make yourself look big, and slowly back away. If the animal continues to approach, make noise to scare it off.
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
How to attract birds to my backyard?
Put up bird feeders with a variety of seeds and suet. Just be sure to clean them regularly to avoid attracting unwanted critters.
How to discourage raccoons from visiting?
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
Secure your trash cans and keep pet food indoors.
How to find out more about Seattle's wildlife?
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has a wealth of information on its website.
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