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Wildlife Safety Starts with Respect

One of the things that makes the Snoqualmie Valley so special is that we live alongside incredible wildlife. Elk, bears, cougars, eagles, river otters, and countless other species call this place home. For many visitors, seeing wildlife is one of the highlights of their visit.

But with that opportunity comes responsibility.

Recently, we have seen an increase in people approaching elk and other wildlife for photos and close encounters. While it may seem harmless, getting too close puts both people and animals at risk.

The Snoqualmie Valley is not a zoo. We are fortunate to live in a place where wildlife still moves freely across the landscape. When we enter trails, parks, rivers, forests, and open spaces, we are entering their home.

Wild animals do not understand selfies, social media posts, or the desire to get a closer look. What they do understand is survival. They instinctively protect their young, defend their territory, and react to anything they perceive as a threat.

An elk grazing peacefully in a field can become dangerous if it feels cornered or threatened. A mother elk with a calf nearby may react aggressively to protect her young. Bears and cougars generally avoid people, but approaching them or blocking their escape route can create a dangerous situation.

The best wildlife encounter is one that happens at a respectful distance.

Wildlife Safety Tips

Give Wildlife Space

Stay at least 100 yards away from elk, bears, cougars, and other large wildlife. If an animal changes its behavior because of your presence, you are too close.

Never Approach for Photos

No photograph is worth risking injury or causing stress to an animal. Use binoculars or zoom lenses instead.

Keep Wildlife Wild

Never feed wildlife. Human food can harm animals, change their natural behaviors, and create future conflicts between wildlife and people.

Secure Food and Trash

Food scraps, coolers, pet food, and garbage attract wildlife. Properly store and dispose of all food and waste.

Leave Young Animals Alone

If you see a young animal by itself, do not approach it. Parents are often nearby and may return once people leave the area.

Do Not Use Drones Near Wildlife

Drones can cause significant stress to wildlife and may be prohibited in many areas. Animals often view drones as predators or threats, which can alter natural behaviors, separate mothers from their young, and increase stress during critical times of the year.

Visitors should also be aware that federal regulations prohibit the harassment or molestation of wildlife on National Forest lands. Respecting wildlife from a distance helps protect both animals and people.

For more information on federal regulations related to wildlife protection, visit: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-36/chapter-II/part-261

Know What to Do if You Encounter Wildlife

If you encounter a bear or cougar:

  • Stay calm.
  • Do not run.
  • Make yourself appear larger.
  • Back away slowly.
  • Give the animal a clear escape route.
  • Report aggressive behavior to authorities.

Stewardship Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Responsible recreation means more than staying on the trail or packing out your trash. It means respecting the wildlife that makes this region unique.

Every time we choose to give animals space, observe from a distance, and model good behavior for others, we help protect the natural character of the Snoqualmie Valley for future generations.

Wildlife encounters are one of the privileges of living and recreating in the Snoqualmie Valley. The best way to protect these animals is to observe them from a distance and allow them to behave naturally. 

When people approach elk, bears, or other wildlife for photographs or a closer look, animals often perceive that behavior as a threat.

We are fortunate to share this landscape with remarkable wildlife. Let’s remember that we are visitors in their world and treat that privilege with the respect it deserves.

Wander Wisely Around Wildlife

  • Observe from a distance.
  • Keep pets under control.
  • Never feed wildlife.
  • Secure food and trash.
  • Use binoculars or zoom lenses for photos.
  • Respect closures and wildlife habitat areas.
  • Teach children to admire wildlife from afar.
  • Give animals the space they need to stay wild.

Wild animals deserve the space to be wild. Together, we can keep both people and wildlife safe.

SnoValley Chamber of Commerce

“Strengthening Commerce Through Community”

Kelly Coughlin Games, CEO

PO Box 357

North Bend, WA 98045

425.888.6362

501.259.5652

Website: www.snovalley.org

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