Alaska is famous for bears, whales, and moose, but its birdlife is just as impressive. Along the coast, eagles perch on spruce trees above the water, seabirds crowd rocky cliffs, and ravens call out over harbor towns. Even travelers who have never owned a pair of binoculars often find themselves hooked on spotting birds by the end of a trip.
Coastal Alaska is especially rewarding for birdwatchers because so many species gather where land meets sea. An Alaskan cruise or coastal road trip passes through prime habitat almost every day. Here is a guide to the birds worth looking for and how to improve the odds of seeing them.
Bald Eagles: Everywhere You Look
Southeast Alaska has one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles anywhere. They are often seen perched on tall trees, pilings, or rocky shorelines, watching for fish.
- Where to look: Harbors, river mouths, and forested coastlines.
- When to look: Year-round, with large gatherings near salmon streams.
- Tip: Scan the tops of dead trees, a favorite perching spot.
Near the town of Haines, the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve hosts a remarkable gathering of eagles in late autumn, when salmon runs draw them to the river.
Puffins: Colorful Seabirds of the Cliffs
Two puffin species live in Alaska: the tufted puffin, with golden head plumes, and the horned puffin, with a bright bill and a small dark marking above each eye. They nest on cliffs and offshore islands during the summer breeding season.
- Where to look: Coastal cliffs and seabird islands, often seen from tour boats.
- When to look: Summer, when they come ashore to nest.
Ravens: Clever Residents of the North
Common ravens are large, glossy black birds known for their intelligence and wide range of calls. They play important roles in many Alaska Native stories and traditions. Ravens are common in towns, forests, and along the coast.
Other Coastal Birds Worth Spotting
- Marbled murrelets: Small seabirds that nest in old-growth forests.
- Common murres: Black-and-white seabirds that crowd cliff ledges.
- Black oystercatchers: Shorebirds with bright red-orange bills.
- Kittiwakes: Graceful gulls that nest in noisy cliff colonies.
- Steller’s jays: Striking blue-and-black birds of coastal forests.
Best Places for Birdwatching
- Glacier and fjord areas: Seabirds feed in nutrient-rich waters near glaciers.
- Kenai Fjords region: Boat tours pass seabird colonies on rocky islands.
- Harbor towns: Eagles, ravens, and gulls are common close to the water.
- Coastal rainforest trails: Songbirds and forest species thrive here.
Gear and Tips for Better Sightings
- Bring binoculars: Even a basic pair makes a big difference.
- Use a field guide or app: Identifying birds is half the fun.
- Look during calm weather: Birds are easier to see on still water.
- Be patient: Many sightings come from waiting quietly in one spot.
Birding Responsibly
Seabird colonies are sensitive, especially during nesting season. Keep a respectful distance, follow guidance from tour operators, and avoid disturbing nests. Organizations such as the National Audubon Society offer helpful resources on bird identification and ethical birding practices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Only looking up: Many seabirds sit on the water’s surface.
- Leaving binoculars packed: The best sightings often happen unexpectedly.
- Getting too close: Disturbing birds can cause them to abandon nests.
A New Way to See the Coast
Paying attention to Alaska’s birds adds a rich new layer to any coastal trip. From eagles on the treetops to puffins on the cliffs, each sighting is a reminder of how full of life this northern shoreline truly is.
