Wildlife & Nature

The abundance of wildlife in the Tri-Cities area makes for exciting observing and learning experiences.

Watch the migration of waterfowl in the fall and spring, and see the subtle changes in local flora and fauna as the seasons change. The Tri-Cities is home to eight National Wildlife Refuges and Reserves, perfect for getting up close to Washington state wildlife. You can also spot local fauna on many of the hiking and biking trails in and around the Tri-Cities.

Thanks to the mild climate, bird enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching year-round. Each visit offers the promise of new and different species, as the area attracts both migrating and resident birds. Visitors are often challenged not by the birding itself, but by finding enough time to explore all the wonderful viewing areas available. Birding is one of the Tri-Cities’ best-kept secrets, and birding enthusiasts from outside the area are frequently impressed by the variety and abundance of species.

Amon Creek Natural Preserve

Amon Basin is created by the drainage of Amon Creek. Amon Creek and its associated wetlands and riparian areas provide a cool refuge for wildlife, including beavers, river otters, jack rabbits and deer. Those who love bird-watching can find over 150 species throughout this preserve.

Audubon Nature Trail

Audubon Nature Trail, located along the Columbia River in Columbia Park, provides a leisurely, paved loop perfect for birding enthusiasts looking for an easy trek. The trail includes a nature pond for insect and fish identification. Visitors have spotted deer tracks as well as other wildlife.

Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve

Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve is one of the last remaining shrub-steppe habitats bordering the southwestern edge of Tri-Cities. Hike, mountain bike, or take a horseback ride up Badger Mountain, where spectacular vistas of Tri-Cities and Columbia, Yakima, and Snake river valleys can be experienced. An interesting mix of small mammals are also found there.

Bateman Island

Bateman Island is located on the Columbia River in south Richland. This remarkable island is classified as an Urban Watchable Wildlife Area. The public island is accessible via a small land bridge, with trails that make it easy to hike or mountain bike the entire island.

McNary National Wildlife Refuge

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is an important resting and feeding area for migratory waterfowl. Depending on the season, visitors have excellent chances to view many species of mammals, songbirds, waterfowl, and migratory birds. More than 212 species of birds are regularly sighted at the Refuge, including several endangered species.

Chamna Natural Preserve

Tapteal Greenway/Chamna Natural Preserve is a 30-mile corridor along the Yakima River with trails, interpretive kiosks, signage, and trail maps. The Yakima River provides an intimate setting, winding through farmlands and thickly-vegetated riparian areas. Kayakers can explore countless sloughs, islands, and rapids on a river that is a popular breeding area for waterfowl and home to many species of Washington state wildlife.

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