Gustavus Wildlife Viewing
Gustavus Forelands

photo of Gustavus Forelands area wildlife The community of Gustavus rests on the broad, flat expanse of the Gustavus forelands, the largest flat plain in Southeast Alaska. Each winter, as the snow pack grows, moose concentrate on the flats to browse on willow and other low-lying plants. Moose are a relatively new member of the Gustavus community, with the first few colonizers arriving in the mid 1960s. By the 1990s they were common, and the Gustavus forelands now has one of the highest densities of moose in Alaska. Common winter birds include chestnut-backed chickadees, golden-crowned kinglets, pine siskins and white-winged crossbills. Horned grebes, red-breasted mergansers, common loons and all three scoter species are often seen in the waters off Gustavus. Moose may be seen during the summer as well, but desnities are much higher during the winter.

Habitat

Moose are often seen near the beach, where the snow is not as deep.

Species

  • Loons
  • Moose
  • Surf Scoter

Hints

Look for moose sign like tracks and chewed branches to know that moose are in the area.

Facilities

  • Hiking Trails
  • Within Walking Distance

Notes

There is moose hunting in Gustavus in the winter, when moose densities are high. Be aware of when moose hunts are taking place, and plan a trip accordingly.

Plan to spend at least: 2 hours - full day+

Best Months

█ Best Month

  • Best Month January
  • Best Month February
  • Best Month March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • Best Month October
  • Best Month November
  • Best Month December

Directions

The Gustavus forelands surround the community of Gustavus, so moose can be spotted anywhere in or near town.

Contact

Gustavus Visitor's Association - (907) 697-2854 or http://www.gustavusak.com

Additional Information

Living with Bears