Wildlife
Juneau is a prime destination for wildlife viewing. Most viewing locations are found a few minutes from the road system or from the harbor. Whale watching and eagle viewing is exceptional. A variety of other sea mammals (seals, sea lions, porpoise) and birds can be found in the immediate area. From April to November, approximately 600 humpback whales inhabit the waters of the northern Inside Passage. The Orca, or killer whale, though less abundant, frequent the area during the summer months. Tour companies offer daily guided whale watching tours and rarely return without whale sightings.
Brown bear viewing is available via a short plane ride from Juneau to Admiralty Island National Monument, home to the largest concentration of brown bear in North America - some 1,600 brown bear, one for every square mile of the island. Prime viewing of the bears follows the salmon which usually during July and August. A limited number of permits per day are issued to enter the bear viewing area. Call USFS 907-586-8751 for information.
Eagles abound in Juneau year-round, but congregate in large numbers during summer salmon spawning period. A favorite gathering place is near the McCauley Salmon Hatchery in July and August.