Wildlife Viewing Guidelines
San Juan Island National Historical Park provides habitat for many species of animals. When you visit the park, you are visiting their home. The choices you make have a direct effect on the wild animals that live here. By following the simple steps listed here you can help protect these animals and help to keep wildlife wild.
Do not approach any wildlife within 75 ft (two school bus lengths).
1.
All wildlife in national parks are protected by federal law. According to the Code of Federal Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.2, the feeding, touching, teasing, frightening or intentional disturbing of wildlife nesting, breeding or other activities is prohibited.
2.
75ft is the standard NPS regulation for distances between humans and small to medium sized animals. Anything closer is considered wildlife harassment.
3.
Use binoculars or telephoto lenses for safe viewing. No chairs or tripods are permitted within the prairie (use is limited to roadside areas & established parking areas behind split-rail fencing).
4.
If an animal sees you and responds, you are too close. You must remain mobile. It is your responsibility to move away, maintain the appropriate distance, and discourage interactions.
5.
Groups of people shall NOT create barriers that constrain animal movement.
6.
All groups must stay on park designated trails, park in designated parking areas, and avoid creating new social trails or walking in open areas off designated trails.
7.
Do NOT feed, bait, or use devices to call wildlife.
8.
Do NOT stand near or on top of animal dens.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
