Wildlife2_

The Columbia River Gorge is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife. From black bears and elk in the forested highlands to river otters and beavers along the waterways, the Gorge's diverse habitats support an abundance of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians waiting to be discovered.

Beaver

North America's largest rodent—a stocky, semi-aquatic mammal with rich brown fur, a broad flat tail, and oversized orange teeth built for felling trees. Beavers are herbivores, feeding on bark, leaves, and aquatic plants, with a preference for willow, cottonwood, and alder. Most active at dusk and dawn, swimming with just their head visible above water or hauling branches to their lodges.

Where To Look
Slower tributaries, wetlands, and backwater sloughs. Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Franz Lake, and marshy areas near Beacon Rock. Best spotted at twilight.

Tracks/Signs
Gnawed stumps with pointed tips, mud-and-stick dams, lodge mounds, and peeled branches floating in the water. Listen for a loud tail slap on the water—their alarm signal.

Black Bear

The Gorge's largest predator—a powerfully built omnivore ranging from black to cinnamon brown, with a straight facial profile and no shoulder hump. Despite their size, they're excellent climbers and swimmers. Opportunistic feeders eating berries, nuts, insects, carrion, and occasionally human food if available. Generally shy and avoid people.

Where To Look
Forested areas throughout the Gorge, particularly the wetter western sections. Rarely seen but present near Eagle Creek, Herman Creek, and backcountry trails. Most active spring through fall; they den in winter.

Tracks/Signs
Overturned logs and rocks (searching for insects), torn-apart rotting stumps, claw marks on trees, large oval tracks with five toes and claw marks, and scat filled with berries or seeds.

SAFETY NOTES
Give bears space—never approach or feed them. Store food properly when camping. If you encounter one, speak calmly, back away slowly, and don't run. Black bears rarely attack but may bluff charge.