Polar Bears Ursus maritimus Formally Known as Thalarctos martimus Alaska is known for the varied and dense populations of bears in their natural habitats. If you head Far North, you may be able to see one of the closest relatives to the well-known large brown bear species, the polar bear. The polar bear is often recognized for its gigantic size, white fur coat, ability to adapt to hostile environments, and top-trophic-level [...]
Alaskan Arctic Water Marine Biology Seven different bay regions exist in Alaska. These regions have five different Alaska marine biology ecosystems classified within them: Gulf of Alaska, Eastern Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, Beaufort Sea, and Chukchi Sea. (NOAA) Bay areas and coastal regions provide ideal ecosystems and habitats for global marine food chains to stabilize, grow, and thrive. Ocean biomes, characterized by their abundance of food sources and diversity, [...]
Owls in Alaska Alaska has abundant food sources and untouched wilderness areas for many apex predators. And even with consideration to large birds of prey like the eagle and hawk, owls are some of the most skilled hunters to navigate these wilds. Because of their elusive nature, it takes a focused and patient observer to learn more about them. Some of us have experienced the reaction we feel when [...]
Indigenous Flora and Fauna of Alaska In Alaska, flora and fauna are abundant. And there are a handful of reasons for that; this region is a paramount migration point for many species to find an ample supply of food sources, negate predators or inhospitable conditions, give birth, and to raise their young. Some species visit for a short time, others migrate to the region for multiple [...]
Mushrooms: Cluster of mushrooms on forest floor Not quite a plant, mushrooms belong in their own family: fungus. In fact, mushrooms are more common to animals than they are to plants! Fungi grow all over the world and come and many shapes and sizes. Mushrooms are the result of the spores of a fungi fruiting. They come in all shapes and sizes in all sorts of ecological environments, but [...]
Like all places, spring is a transition time and Alaska is no different. Many know Alaska to be the 'land of the midnight sun', however summer is not the only time of year The Last Frontier shines! As the short, cold winter days fade away Alaska starts to come alive in the spring. Believe it or not, by early March most of the state has close to 11 hours of [...]
Alaska is referred to by many names and titles. Originally translated from the Aleut word “aleyska,” meaning “great land.” Others have referred to it as a land of abundance, "The Last Frontier", or the "North to the Future". This bountiful and majestic land has histories of unsettled wild, famous trading routes and mapping, and echoes of the iconic Gold Rush. The experiences and life that cycle in Alaska offers a [...]
Once August comes around in Alaska folks start to notice that the nights become increasing longer and welcome back the sights and awe of the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights shine during all the seasons, and due to the long summertime hours and midnight sun, you can best observe them from August till April in Alaska. These lights put on magnificent displays of greens, pinks, violets, and whites that dance [...]
Moose of Alaska Spring signals its arrival in Alaska quickly and abruptly in the most beautiful ways. Bright greens of new growth seem to appear across the valleys and mountains overnight. These signs of new life signal wildlife and other plants to begin their spring rhythms. Moose are one of the first to start their grazing migrations as the first new growth on trees and bushes are one of [...]
Alaska Birding Alaska is known for it's paramount wildlife sightings. Specifically, it's superb bird watching opportunities and for a variety of reasons. We are going to explore just why Alaska offers such an exciting stage for viewing hundreds of species of birds. And, how to get to the best Alaskan bird watching sites in the 'Last Frontier'. Migratory and Residential Birds So what is it that draws in millions of birds [...]
