PNW paddling & common animal sightings
Get to know the fascinating, commonly-sighted animals you might observe on your next paddling trip in the Pacific Northwest.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Common animals you have the great chances of spotting in the wild while kayaking in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho,
Tips for increasing your odds of observing wildlife species while paddling, and
Specific paddling routes we’ve kayaked ourselves and what animals we’ve encountered on our trips (with great options for beginners).
So, grab your paddle, put on your life jacket, and get ready to immerse yourself in the diverse world of Pacific Northwest wildlife from your recreational flatwater kayak!
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Balancing the ecosystem: key wildlife species in the Pacific Northwest
Set out on a kayaking adventure in the Pacific Northwest, and you'll quickly discover that the region's stunning landscapes are teeming with a rich variety of wildlife.
As you paddle through tranquil rivers, serene lakes, and lush wetlands, you'll have the unique opportunity to observe some of the most fascinating and iconic animal species up close in their natural habitats. From majestic birds of prey soaring above to playful river otters swimming in the waters, the Pacific Northwest is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Here are some of the reasons that PNW conservation efforts are important:
The wildlife species commonly found in the Pacific Northwest play crucial roles in maintaining the health and balance of their ecosystems. Each animal contributes to the stability of the food chain and the preservation of natural habitats, making them indispensable to the environment.
Beavers, for instance, are natural engineers that create wetland habitats by building dams. These wetlands support an array of plant and animal species and help control floods, filter water, and provide essential breeding grounds for fish like salmon. Bald eagles, ospreys, and other birds of prey help maintain balance in the ecosystem by controlling populations of small mammals and fish. As apex predators, they also help prevent the spread of diseases by feeding on weak or sick prey.
Similarly, river otters play a vital role in controlling populations of fish and crustaceans, while their playful behaviors help maintain the health of riverbanks by churning up the soil and preventing it from becoming compacted. Black-tailed deer are an essential food source for large predators such as cougars and wolves, while their browsing habits help control plant growth and maintain the diversity of the landscape.
The presence of these species in the states of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho is not only a testament to the region's ecological health, but they also contribute to the vibrancy and beauty of this part of the country (we absolutely love living here).
By respecting and protecting these creatures and their habitats as responsible kayakers, we can help preserve health of the Pacific Northwest's ecosystems for generations to come.
Look for these common wildlife species on your next PNW paddle
Great Blue Herons
These elegant wading birds are the largest herons in North America, standing up to 4.5 feet tall with a wingspan of 6.5 feet. They have a blue-gray body, a long neck, and a dagger-like bill. Great blue herons inhabit marshes, lakes, and rivers, where they patiently stalk their prey, primarily fish and amphibians. Watch for them standing motionless in shallow water (possibly waiting to strike at unsuspecting fish prey).
What to look for
To spot a great blue heron, pay close attention to the shallow waters along the edges of rivers, lakes, and wetlands with you’re flatwater kayaking. These elegant birds often stand still, partially hidden among the vegetation, as they patiently stalk their prey. Keep an eye out for their distinctive long legs, blue-gray body, and dagger-like bill. You may also see them in flight, with their necks curled into an "S" shape and their long legs trailing behind them. Remember to observe from a respectful distance to avoid disturbing these beautiful water birds.
Where to paddle
Paddle through the serene waters of Sauvie Island or explore the picturesque Scappoose Bay to increase your chances of spotting a wild great blue heron (I literally saw two at Scappoose this very week from my kayak).
These popular kayaking routes near Portland, Oregon, are known as great birding spots due to diverse wildlife and wetland waters, making them the perfect places to catch a glimpse of these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
We’ve also spotted them while paddling around Ross Island near Portland, Oregon.
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of spotting a great blue heron, try paddling during early morning or late afternoon hours, as these birds are most active during these times. Additionally, approach their habitat quietly and slowly, as sudden movements or loud noises can startle them and cause them to fly away. By being patient and respectful, you'll maximize your chances of encountering these magnificent birds on your kayaking adventures.
Bald Eagles
These massive, iconic birds of prey are the national symbol of the United States. With a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and a striking white head and tail, they're easily recognizable. Bald eagles are commonly found near large bodies of water, such as rivers and lakes in the Pacific Northwest, where they can hunt for fish, their primary food source. To spot a bald eagle, keep an eye out for large nests in tall trees and look for their distinctive soaring flight pattern.
What to look for
To spot a wild bald eagle in the Pacific Northwest, focus on areas near large bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and coastal regions, where they often hunt for fish. Keep an eye out for their massive nests, typically built high up in large trees or on cliffs. Bald eagles are easily identified by their stunning large white head and tail, contrasting with their dark brown body. Scan the sky for their soaring flight, with wings held flat and horizontal, or look for them perched on tall trees or snags near the water's edge. Be patient and observant, and remember to use binoculars to get a closer look without disturbing these majestic birds. Need more tips with step-by-step photos? We have an in-depth guide from our recent paddling trip and observing wild bald eagles in the state of Washington.
Where to paddle
If you're eager to spot wild bald eagles while flatwater kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, be sure to explore the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge in Washington. This stunning refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including majestic bald eagles, making it a prime destination for kayakers who want to witness these impressive birds soaring overhead or perching in the trees.
Another great spot where we’ve seen them is along the Columbia River (but if paddling, exercise extreme caution and research appropriate flatwater routes ahead of time, like kayaking from The Hook point in Hood River, Oregon or the calmer waters of nearby Wind River in Washington). Another spot with reported bald eagle sightings is paddling the Willamette Narrows, which is a 2 mile RT paddle from Willamette Park in West Linn, Oregon (near Portland).
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of spotting a wild bald eagle, research kayaking destinations where eagles congregate around abundant food sources like seasonal salmon runs. Another tip is to visit popular eagle-watching locations, such as designated wildlife refuges or known nesting sites. By visiting these areas and being patient, you'll maximize your chances of encountering these iconic birds in their natural habitat.
River Otters
Playful and agile, river otters are members of the weasel family. They have a sleek, streamlined body, short legs, and webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers. River otters are found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, and marshes. They primarily feed on fish, crustaceans, and amphibians. Look for their distinctive, serpentine swimming pattern and listen for their chattering vocalizations when they're socializing.
What to look for
To spot a wild river otter, focus on areas near rivers, lakes, and wetlands, where they often hunt for fish, crayfish, and other aquatic prey. Keep an eye out for their sleek, dark brown bodies and their characteristically long, tapered tails. River otters are often seen swimming near the water's surface or sliding playfully on riverbanks and muddy slopes. Look for signs of otter activity, such as tracks or slides along the shoreline. Be patient and observant, as river otters are elusive and can quickly disappear underwater or among the vegetation.
Where to paddle
The Pacific Northwest offers numerous flat water kayaking locations where you might have a chance to see wild river otters. Paddle along the Willamette River in Oregon (where we saw one recently!) or explore the inlets, bays, and estuaries of Puget Sound in Washington. You can also try your luck on the Skagit River in Washington, which is known for its diverse wildlife, or venture to the expansive Columbia River that flows through Oregon and Washington. Although river otters can be elusive, by choosing locations with suitable habitat and being patient and observant, you'll increase your chances of spotting these playful creatures. Also, ask your local paddle shop for additional tips, as their guided experts are frequently paddling local water and likely know the best nearby spots to kayak with river otters.
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of spotting a wild river otter, paddle through their habitat during early morning or late afternoon, when these animals are more likely to be active. Another tip is to paddle quietly and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises, as river otters can be skittish and easily scared away. By being patient and respectful of their environment, you'll have a better chance of encountering these playful creatures on your kayaking adventures.
Beavers
Known for their impressive dam-building skills, beavers are large, semi-aquatic rodents with a distinctive flat tail and sharp teeth. They inhabit rivers, streams, and wetlands, where they feed on tree bark, leaves, and aquatic vegetation. Beavers are primarily nocturnal but can be seen during the day. To spot them, look for signs such as felled trees, gnawed stumps, and of course, beaver dams.
What to look for
To spot a beaver while kayaking, focus on areas near rivers, lakes, and wetlands where they build their lodges and dams. Keep an eye out for their distinctive paddle-shaped tails and large, robust bodies. Look for signs of beaver activity, such as gnawed tree stumps, dams, or lodges made of sticks and mud. Beavers can be quite shy, so approach their habitat slowly and quietly to avoid scaring them away. Patience and keen observation are key, as beavers can disappear underwater for several minutes before resurfacing, often at a different location.
Where to paddle
To spot a wild beaver while flatwater kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, head to waterways such as the Tualatin River in Oregon or Lake Washington in Seattle. These popular spots are known for their thriving beaver populations, making them ideal locations for catching a glimpse of these industrious creatures as they go about their daily activities.
Tips for increasing your chances
Beavers are primarily nocturnal, so your best chance of seeing them is during the early morning or late evening hours (consider booking a guided sunrise or sunset tour for an epic paddling experience). Also, use your ears – When beavers sense danger or feel threatened, they often slap their broad, paddle-shaped tail against the water's surface, creating a loud noise that serves as an alarm signal to warn other beavers nearby.
Image credit: FWS
Black-tailed Deer
These medium-sized deer are native to the Pacific Northwest and have a characteristic black tail and large ears. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and riparian areas. Black-tailed deer are browsers, feeding on a variety of vegetation, including leaves, twigs, and shrubs. They are most active during dawn and dusk. To spot them, look for their subtle, white rump patch, which contrasts with their otherwise dark body.
What to look for
While kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, you may encounter black-tailed deer along the shorelines of rivers, lakes, or wetlands. To identify these deer, look for their medium-sized, slender body and characteristic black tail, which stands out against their otherwise brownish-gray fur. Males, or bucks, have antlers during certain times of the year, while females, or does, have a more delicate appearance. Black-tailed deer are generally shy and prefer to stay near forest edges or dense vegetation for cover, so scan these areas while paddling to increase your chances of spotting them.
We frequently see black tailed teer while paddling through wildlife refuges.
Where to paddle
For an opportunity to spot wild black-tailed deer while flatwater kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, head to locations such as the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful refuge is known for its diverse wildlife, including black-tailed deer, making it an ideal destination for kayakers seeking a glimpse of these graceful animals in their natural habitat. We’ve seen them there many times from our boats.
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of seeing black-tailed deer from your kayak, consider paddling during early morning or late afternoon hours when these animals are most active. Another tip is to approach their habitat quietly and slowly, as sudden movements or loud noises can startle them, causing them to retreat into the forest. By being patient and respectful of their environment, you'll have a better chance of encountering these beautiful animals during your kayaking adventures.
Osprey
Known as "fish hawks," ospreys are birds of prey with a wingspan of up to 6 feet. They have dark brown upperparts, white underparts, and a distinctive black eye stripe. Ospreys are found near bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, where they feed almost exclusively on fish. They're known for their spectacular hunting dives, plunging feet-first into the water to catch their prey.
What to look for
When kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, identifying a wild osprey can be an exciting experience. Ospreys are large birds of prey, with a wingspan that can reach up to six feet. Their bodies are primarily dark brown, with a white head and a distinctive black stripe that runs from the eyes to the back of the head. Ospreys have a unique hovering behavior while hunting for fish, which makes them easier to spot as they dive into the water to catch their prey. They are also known for their large stick nests, often built atop tall structures near water bodies, such as trees, poles, or nesting platforms specifically made for them.
Where to paddle
In the Pacific Northwest, there are several locations where you can paddle and have an excellent chance of spotting a wild osprey. The Willamette River in Oregon, with its abundant fish populations, is a prime spot for observing these birds of prey. Similarly, the Columbia River, which flows through Oregon and Washington, offers numerous opportunities for paddlers to encounter ospreys due to its rich fish resources. Paddling around the Puget Sound in Washington, with its many inlets and bays, is another area where you can find ospreys hunting for fish. By exploring these waterways, you increase your chances of witnessing the impressive osprey in its natural habitat.
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of spotting an osprey in the Pacific Northwest, consider kayaking near bodies of water with abundant fish populations, as ospreys primarily feed on fish. Another tip is to keep an eye out for their large, conspicuous nests built on tall structures near the water. By being observant and focusing on areas where ospreys are known to hunt and nest, you'll have a better chance of encountering these impressive birds while kayaking.
Sea Lions
These large marine mammals are known for their playful antics and loud barking vocalizations. They inhabit both coastal and freshwater environments, with some populations found in the Willamette River in Oregon City, Oregon, near the falls during their hunting season.
Sea lions primarily feed on fish and squid, and they're skilled hunters with powerful front flippers that allow them to navigate swiftly through the water. Keep an eye out for them near the falls or hauling out on rocks, docks, or buoys to rest.
Kayaking with sea lions in Oregon City, Oregon
What to look for
While kayaking in the Pacific Northwest, you may come across wild sea lions, which can be an exhilarating experience. Sea lions are large, robust marine mammals with smooth, streamlined bodies and long, flexible flippers. Their fur varies in color, ranging from light tan to dark brown. Sea lions have a distinctive, dog-like face with large, expressive eyes and small external ears. Males, known as bulls, are generally larger than females and may have a thicker neck and broader forehead. You can often hear them barking, which is another telltale sign that you have encountered a sea lion.
Where to paddle
One popular flat water kayaking location where you can see wild sea lions is the San Juan Islands in Washington. With numerous guided tours available (paddlers can explore calm bays and coastlines while observing these marine mammals in their natural habitat. Another option is the Columbia River Estuary in Oregon, where sea lions often gather to feed on fish, making it an ideal spot for kayakers to witness these fascinating creatures up close.
Where we’ve seen them? Paddling at the base of Willamette Falls in Oregon City, Oregon, where sea lions congregate to hunt for fish in the spring. Need a guided experience? Call up eNRG Kayaking, as their expert instructors frequently lead guided weekend tours to the falls.
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of spotting a sea lion while flat water kayaking on a river in the Pacific Northwest, consider paddling in areas where they are known to gather, particularly during their hunting season. By focusing your kayaking adventures on these known sea lion hotspots, you'll have a greater likelihood of encountering these magnificent marine mammals in their natural environment.
Red-tailed Hawks
These large birds of prey are easily recognized by their broad, rounded wings and fan-shaped, red tail. They inhabit a wide variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Red-tailed hawks primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, using their keen eyesight to spot prey from high perches or while soaring overhead. To spot a red-tailed hawk, look for them perched on trees, poles, or other elevated structures, or watch for their characteristic soaring flight with occasional wing flaps.
What to look for
Identifying a wild red-tailed hawk while kayaking can be an exciting experience. These birds of prey are easily recognizable by their broad wings, which span around four feet across, and their distinctive reddish-brown tail. Adult red-tailed hawks have a dark brown back and a pale underside with a streaked belly. They often perch on tall trees, power poles, or other elevated structures, scanning the ground for prey. In flight, they can be spotted soaring with their wings held in a slight V-shape, gliding on thermal currents.
Where to paddle
For flat water kayaking routes with a high chance of spotting red-tailed hawks, consider paddling along the Willamette River in Oregon or the Skagit River in Washington. These waterways provide diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and open fields, which support an abundance of prey for these birds. As you paddle through these scenic areas, keep an eye on the sky and the treetops, and you may be rewarded with a sighting of the majestic red-tailed hawk in its natural environment.
Tips for increasing your chances
To increase your chances of spotting a red-tailed hawk while flat water kayaking on a river in the Pacific Northwest, keep an eye out for elevated perches where these birds are known to sit and hunt. Additionally, pay attention to their characteristic soaring flight patterns and listen for their distinctive, raspy cry, which can be a giveaway of their presence.
Summary
As you paddle through the beautiful waterways of this region of the United States, you'll have an excellent chance to spot a variety of fascinating wildlife, including these commonly-spotted species.
With each encounter, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of the ecosystems and the importance of preserving them for future generations. So, keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready, as you never know which amazing creatures you might come across during your Pacific Northwest kayaking adventures!
Want to learn more about the animals of this region? Check out our list of 20 breathtaking wildlife species in the Pacific Northwest and all about the blue Stellar’s Jay, a commonly-spotted beautiful bird in Oregon and Washington.
Safeguarding Pacific Northwest wildlife: key conservation organizations
Plenty of conservation organizations are working tirelessly to protect these species and their habitats. Let’s take a quick look at some key players in the PNW region:
Audubon Society of Portland
This organization is dedicated to the protection and conservation of native birds and their habitats. They offer educational programs, advocate for bird-friendly policies, and organize habitat restoration projects. (They also have an incredible center near Portland with hiking trails, a shop, and wildlife veterinary center).
The Nature Conservancy
This global organization focuses on conserving land and water habitats in the Pacific Northwest. They work on habitat restoration, ecosystem management, and the establishment of protected areas for wildlife.
The Oregon Wildlife Foundation
This foundation supports various projects and initiatives aimed at conserving and restoring Oregon's wildlife and their habitats, including the Oregon Conservation Strategy, which outlines priorities and actions for conservation efforts.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
This state agency is responsible for managing the state's fish, wildlife, and their habitats, ensuring the long-term survival of these species. They conduct research, develop management plans, and engage in habitat restoration projects.
Idaho Fish and Game
This state agency works to protect and manage Idaho's wildlife populations, as well as their habitats. They focus on preserving species diversity and sustaining the ecosystems that support them.
By supporting these organizations and participating in their conservation initiatives, you can help ensure the continued survival of the incredible wildlife species found in the PNW.
Responsible kayaking and the well-being of PNW Species
Always remember to follow responsible and ethical kayaking rules when flatwater paddling:
Keep a respectful distance. Observe wildlife from a safe distance to avoid disturbing their natural behavior and habitat. This also ensures your safety.
Stay on designated waterways: Stick to established paddling routes to minimize disturbance to sensitive habitats and nesting areas.
Leave No Trace: Practice the Leave No Trace principles by packing out any trash and avoiding littering. This helps protect the environment and the species living in it.
Respect nesting and breeding seasons: Be aware of nesting and breeding seasons for local wildlife, and avoid paddling in sensitive areas during these times.
Report injured or sick wildlife: If you encounter injured, sick, or distressed animals, contact local wildlife rehabilitation centers or authorities instead of trying to help them yourself.
Educate yourself: Learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems to better understand their needs and how to support conservation efforts.
Support conservation organizations: Donate to or volunteer with local conservation organizations that work to protect the wildlife and ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest.
By following these tips, kayakers can enjoy the beauty of Pacific Northwest waterways while ensuring the protection and preservation of the species that call them home.
About Flatwater Kayak Club
Flatwater Kayak Club is a leading woman-owned kayaking lifestyle business based in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon. As a free online community, we bring together kayaking enthusiasts from all over the world to share their love for flat water paddling in the Pacific Northwest.
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