Wildlife
Latest Stories

Bears are on the prowl for food across Oregon, meaning potential run-ins with humans
Spring is a time of rebirth, warmer days, and bears rummaging for food. And, according to state wildlife officials, bears have a keen sense of smell that can sniff out trash and even barbecue grills that haven't been cleaned since the last use.

Years of work transform ‘beaten down’ area near Eugene into wildlife sanctuary
Less than 10 miles from downtown Eugene, the Willamette Confluence Preserve offers a sanctuary for Oregon wildlife.
Rare wolverine sighting recorded near Portland
The wolverine was the first confirmed in western Oregon in more than 30 years.

Oregon researchers develop new treatment for endangered sea stars
The sunflower sea star is a keystone species that lives along the Pacific Coast, but it is critically endangered. That's because of Sea Star Wasting Syndrome, which causes the animals to dissolve.

Group threatens to sue over federal plan for upper Deschutes, citing risks to imperiled frog
A wildlife conservation group has warned two federal agencies that they intend to sue over what they call a “flawed” and “incomplete” habitat plan that endangers a regional amphibian.

Bear sightings are up in populated areas across Oregon
Bear sightings in populated areas are up across Oregon, as poor berry crops have led the animals to search further for food.

North Cascades grizzly bear translocation study begins with virtual public meetings
Federal officials are again looking at bringing grizzly bears into the North Cascades. Now, officials want to hear from the public about what to consider this time around.

Yes, sea otters can be reintroduced to Oregon coast, but it must be done carefully, report says
A federal study ordered by Congress concluded it would be feasible to reintroduce sea otters to the Oregon and northern California coasts. However, that finding doesn't mean the super-cute predators will be relocated into their former ocean habitat anytime soon.

Rejoining a landscape: Southern Oregon coalition moves forward with I-5 wildlife crossings
The Southern Oregon Wildlife Crossing Coalition is attempting to create new structures and enhance existing ones so that animals can safely cross I-5 in the Siskiyou Summit region. The interstate bisects the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, which was designated for its diversity of wildlife, insects, and plant communities, representing a profound barrier to the many animals attempting to get from one part of their habitat to another.
Tribal scientists snorkel rivers to help save freshwater mussels in the Northwest
Checking every inch of a streambed for freshwater mussels requires a snorkel and a wetsuit. It’s a messy job, but it’s vitally important as these keystone species are declining throughout the West.