When it comes to getting up close with some of Alaska’s most magnificent wildlife, few places rival the untouched beauty of Wrangell Island. Nestled in the southeastern part of Alaska, Wrangell offers visitors a chance to witness wildlife that roams free in one of the most serene settings on Earth. Having guided countless Wrangell Island tours, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative these experiences can be. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, specific wildlife encounters should top your list.
In this post, I’ll share the top wildlife experiences you can’t miss during your Wrangell Island adventure. Whether spotting elusive bears or marveling at humpback whales breaching, these moments will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip.
Humpback Whales: Giants of the SeaWitness the Majesty of Humpbacks
One of the most awe-inspiring experiences you’ll have on a Wrangell Alaska tour is witnessing the incredible humpback whales. These ocean giants frequent the waters surrounding Wrangell Island, making whale-watching one of the most popular activities for visitors.
Humpbacks are known for their acrobatic breaches, where they leap out of the water, creating a splash that will leave you speechless. Seeing such a massive creature display its power and grace in the open sea is profoundly humbling. If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse their tail slapping the water as they dive deep.
Best Time to Spot Humpback Whales
The best time to see these magnificent creatures is during the summer months when they migrate to the rich feeding grounds of Alaska. Late spring through early fall is the prime time for whale-watching on Wrangell Alaska tours, and if you’ve got your camera ready, you’re bound to capture some incredible shots.
I’ll never forget the first time I saw a mother humpback with her calf. We were on a small boat, no more than 20 feet from the shore, when the pair surfaced right before us. The mother gently nudged her calf closer to the surface, and we watched, completely in awe, as they slowly disappeared into the depths. Experiences like this are every day on Wrangell Island, leaving you with memories that last a lifetime.
Brown Bears: Kings of the ForestSpotting Bears in Their Natural Habitat
Alaska is famous for its brown bears, and Wrangell Island is no exception. On any Wrangell Alaska tour, one of the highlights is the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Wrangell’s remote and unspoiled landscapes provide the perfect environment for bears to thrive.
One of the best places to catch a glimpse of brown bears is near the streams during salmon season. Bears gather by the water from mid-summer to early fall to fish for their next meal. If you visit during this time, you might see a bear skillfully swatting a salmon out of the water with a precision that only years of practice could perfect.
Bear Safety Tips
As thrilling as seeing bears, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals. Keeping a safe distance is essential to your safety and the bears’ well-being. If you’re taking part in one of the guided Wrangell Island tours, your guide will ensure that all safety protocols are followed while allowing you to enjoy these incredible sightings.
One time, while guiding a group through the forest, we quietly watched a bear in the distance catching salmon. What amazed everyone was how calm and focused the bear was, almost ignoring our presence as long as we respected its space. Watching a bear in its element like that puts things into perspective—it’s a reminder that you’re the visitor in their world.
Bald Eagles: Soaring Through the SkiesThe Ultimate Birdwatching Experience
Bald eagles are the iconic symbol of American wildlife, and Wrangell Island is home to a large population of these magnificent birds. Whether cruising along the coastline or hiking through the forests, it’s hard to miss these majestic birds soaring overhead or perched on a tree branch scanning the water for fish.
Wrangell Island Tours offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially for eagle enthusiasts. These birds are known for their sharp eyesight and powerful talons, which they use to snatch fish right out of the water. If you’ve never seen an eagle dive into the water and come out with a catch, it’s a breathtaking sight.
Where to Find Bald Eagles
Eagles can be spotted almost year-round on Wrangell Alaska tours, but spring and summer are prime times to witness them fishing along the rivers and coasts. Something is awe-inspiring about seeing an eagle swoop down from the sky, its wings outstretched, just before it snatches a fish from the water’s surface.
I remember one tour where an eagle followed us along the shoreline. It would perch on different trees, almost as if it were watching us. Our group couldn’t stop marveling at how close it got, and by the end of the day, we were convinced the eagle was our unofficial tour guide.
Seals and Sea Lions: Playful Marine ResidentsSpot the Pinnipeds of Wrangell
Seals and sea lions are another wildlife highlight on Wrangell Island tours. These playful creatures are often seen lounging on rocky outcrops or swimming near the shore. Their curious nature means they may even approach boats, providing an up-close look at their sleek, streamlined bodies.
While seals are often more solitary, sea lions gather in groups, barking loudly and creating a stir. If you’re out on a boat tour, don’t be surprised if you hear them long before you see them!
Best Viewing Spots for Seals and Sea Lions
One of the best spots to see seals and sea lions is on a guided Wrangell Alaska tour that takes you along the island’s rocky coast. I often recommend booking a wildlife tour designed to encounter these marine animals. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who know exactly where to find the local seal and sea lion hangouts.
While guiding a small group, one day, we stopped near a group of sea lions basking on a rock. As we approached quietly, one of the sea lions lifted its head and gave us a lazy, curious look before flopping back down to sunbathe. These small, candid moments make Wrangell Island a wildlife lover’s paradise.
Orcas: The Wolves of the SeaSpotting the Apex Predators of the Ocean
Orcas, or killer whales, are often called the wolves of the sea due to their pack-like hunting behavior. Wrangell Island’s waters are among the few places to see these magnificent creatures in the wild. While spotting orcas isn’t as common as seeing humpbacks, the chance to encounter them on a Wrangell Alaska tour makes the experience all the more special.
Orcas travel in pods, and when you see one, there’s a good chance you’ll see several more close by. On a boat tour, keep your eyes peeled for their distinctive black-and-white coloring and towering dorsal fins slicing through the water.
When and Where to See Orcas
Your best bet for spotting orcas is during the summer when they’re more active in Alaskan waters. Keep your camera ready because orca sightings are often brief but unforgettable.
One summer, I was guiding a tour when we spotted a pod of orcas in the distance. As we got closer, one orca breached the water, and the entire group gasped in unison. Moments like these remind me why I love what I do—helping people experience Wrangell Island tours’ wild, untamed beauty.
Book Your Wildlife Adventure with Muddy Water Adventures
For those looking to experience the best wildlife Wrangell Island offers, there’s no better choice than Muddy Water Adventures. Their Wrangell Island tours are expertly designed to showcase the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife that make this part of Alaska particular. From bear-watching to whale sightings, these tours provide nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts with an unforgettable adventure.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see Alaska’s wildlife up close. Book your tour today with Muddy Water Adventures and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
