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Wildlife Viewing 
Wildlife on the Kenai Refuge
Nearly two million acres in size, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is characterized by its diverse habitats and wildlife. Due to this variety, the Refuge is considered by many visitors to represent Alaska in miniature. Then, why is wildlife viewing so unpredictable here? Unlike the unobstructed viewing experienced on water in Kenai Fjords National Park or in an open tundra area like Denali National Park, much of the terrain at the Refuge is covered with high, dense vegetation. Although there are many miles of roads within the Refuge, the views obtained from a leisurely car ride are frequently obscured by brush and timber. However, there are several ways to surmount these barriers to wildlife viewing, as outlined below. By paying attention to the variables involved in seeing wildlife here, you can significantly improve your visit. HABITAT Become familiar with, and then visit the habitats required by the animals you are trying to spot. TIME OF DAY Most animals are more active around sunrise and sunset. When there is little traffic on the roads (early morning and late evening), wildlife is much more likely to be seen from your vehicle. WILDERNESS Explore the backcountry via our hiking trails or canoe system. Many animals prefer these less disturbed areas. PATIENCE Be still and wait for the animals to "come to you". OTHER SENSES Do more than just watch. Use your other senses to locate wildlife. Keep Your Distance: Most animals frighten very easily. Animals often respond to repeated interference by abandoning their home range, nesting sites, and even their young. Some animals, like moose and bear, will fiercely defend their territories and offspring. Whether wildlife responds passively or aggressively, the fact that an animal "responds" to a human means that the person is too close. Always view animals "at a distance" so they are not disturbed by your presence. Never Feed the Animals: It creates an association for the animals between humans and food. It also interferes with an animal's special diet required for its survival. Animals that get accustomed to being fed by people may starve when this unnatural food source disappears. Drive Safely: Wildlife could be crossing the road at any moment, especially during times of marginal visibility such as dawn, dusk, and nighttime. Driving the speed limit significantly reduces collisions with wildlife. When you see wildlife, stop to view them from a safe pullout, not from the roadway. There are few sights more endearing and potentially dangerous than baby animals with their mothers. This is particularly the case with female moose and bear, which will vigorously defend their young from anything the least bit threatening, including humans, dogs and even automobiles. Be especially wary of moose that have recently given birth to calves, generally from mid-May to mid-June. Since bear cubs often remain with their mothers for several years, extreme caution should always be exercised around bears. And, remember, even if you see only young animals, a parent is sure to be lurking nearby. By keeping your distance, you will be able to enjoy a wildlife family while avoiding confrontation. |
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