In addition to beautiful scenery and interesting history, the San Juan Islands are home to a rich variety of wildlife. Whether you have a quiet picnic or go for a long hike, seeing and hearing a range of wild creatures can add to your enjoyment of this special place. We have to remember to be cautious, courteous and respectful when around areas of known or suspected wildlife activity.
Slow and Quiet - Move slowly and quietly. If you move quickly and make lots of noise, most wild animals will be gone long before you realize they are there.
Listen and Look - Use your ears as well as your eyes. Often the first clue that a wild animal is nearby is a sound - a few cheeps from the branches above your head, or a rustle in the bushes.
Sit and Watch - Choose a good spot, sit quietly, and look around. It’s more rewarding to watch animals acting naturally, unaware that you are there.
Not Too Close - Don’t be tempted to move closer to get a better look or a good photo. Use binoculars to watch from a distance or a telephoto lens to take photos. If an animal reacts to your presence, you are too close.
** Popeye the harbor seal is a beloved member of the Friday Harbor community. However, marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. Feeding, touching, or harassing them is illegal and may result in fines up to $10,000 per infraction. The best chance for these animals to survive and thrive is to find their own food and not associate food with people. Please help us protect Popeye and other marine mammals in our ecosystem! **
Tide pools are fascinating microcosms of marine life only revealed at low tides. There can be a dozen species in a rocky crevice the size of your bathroom sink. While exploring, don't forget to be a good GUEST!
G = GENTLE touching. And clean fingers, please! Beach creatures would prefer you use just one wet, well-rinsed finger to explore with. If whatever you are examining appears to be stuck, don't try to pry it off.
U = USE your head - to measure rocks! Any rock you turn over on the beach should be no larger than what is between your ears. Turn gently.
E = EVERYTHING stays. Once you are done exploring under a rock, turn it back over carefully. Leave the beach at the beach.
S = STEP lightly! The beach is a wet and slippery place and falling on barnacles is...uncomfortable. You also don't want to miss - or squish - any of the cool critters by running past them too quickly!
T = TAKE your belongings. If you brought it with you, take it home. If you find something that does not belong on the beach, such as trash, be awesome and take that as well.
Our thanks to Harbor Wildwatch for these tips!
