Southeast Alaska Birding Trail Hoonah

Icy Strait

Watch for Common Murre, Marbled Murrelet, Black-legged Kittiwake, Pigeon Guillemot, Pelagic Cormorant, Pacific Loon and Surf Scoter.

Icy Strait connects the open ocean of the north Pacific Ocean and Glacier Bay to the northern portions of the Inside Passage. Numerous marine mammals use this area including whales (orca and humpback), Steller sea lions, porpoise, seals, and sea otters. Birds you are likely to encounter include: Common Murre, Marbled Murrelet, Black-legged Kittiwake, Pigeon Guillemot, Pelagic Cormorant, Pacific Loon and Surf Scoter.

Directions:

Cruise ships or a charter/tour boats are the best way to see Icy Strait. The Hoonah Visitors Association and other local resources can provide a listing of charter boat operators including services to support tours, camping and sea kayaking.

Pacific Loon.
Pacific Loon. Photo: Milo Burcham

Birding Resources:

Bird Species Checklist:

How you can help, right now