The Pacific Northwest is a place that is full of biodiversity both of species and ecosystems. Yet this fragile system is being put under threat by deforestation and pollution. Some animals are more gravely affected than others, putting our entire northwest ecosystem in peril.
Still, there is hope for us to save these wonderful species. Here are some animals that are endangered in the PNW according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Wolverine
Level of vulnerability: High
Where they live: Canada, Alaska, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana in boreal forests, taiga, and tundra.
Why they are vulnerable: Declines in snowpack have made it so wolverines cannot make a cache and are not protected from predators. The warmer temperatures have made it so that they cannot survive since they are adapted to cooler temperatures.
Image Credit: NPR
Fun Facts: Wolverines are a type of mustelid, so they are related to otters, minks and martens. They are able to defend themselves from bears and wolves. Wolverines also live in Nordic Europe, Russia, and Siberia. Their territory can range from 40 to 770 square miles.
Orca
Level of vulnerability: High
Where they live: Their population stretches from California to Alaska in coast and ocean.
Why they are vulnerable: Declines in prey by climate change is done by ocean acidification and runoff.
Fun Facts: Orcas have been known to take down sharks. Their diet includes salmon, squid, and seals. Their teeth span about 3 feet in length. An orca pod can cover 99 miles a day.
Image Credit: Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
Oregon spotted frog
Level of vulnerability: Moderate High
Where they live: From Whatcom county to the east and west of the cascades in wetlands, ponds, and lakes.
Why are they vulnerable: Pollution in wetlands halts the eggs hatching and drier conditions make it impossible to survive because frogs need moisture on their skin to live.
Fun Facts: Their eggs are wrapped in a jelly-like substance that is poisonous to other animals if eaten. Their call is like the sound of your tongue clicked against the roof of your mouth. Adult frogs diet consists of only insects, but a tadpoles diet includes organic material.
Despite all this decline in species there are steps you can take around the house that can have an impact. You can conserve water by taking short showers and turning off the faucet. Instead of pesticides use ladybugs you can purchase from hardware and gardening stores. Encourage recycling and using less plastic in general.
Image Credit: California Herps
Doing all of this might seem small but it will make a difference in the future of our wild Pacific Northwest.