Complete Guide to Alaska Birds: Species, Locations & Viewing Tips

Last updated: Apr 10, 2025 • Read time: ~18 minutes

Key takeaways

• Alaska hosts nearly 500 bird species, making it one of North America’s most diverse birdwatching destinations.
• Iconic species include bald eagles, puffins, snowy owls, sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans.
• The willow ptarmigan is Alaska’s official state bird.
• Different habitats—coastal cliffs, fjords, wetlands, boreal forests and tundra—support distinct species.
• Princess Alaska cruises and shore excursions offer excellent access to seabird colonies, fjords and inland habitats.

Alaska’s wild landscapes are a dream for bird lovers. From seabird cliffs along the Inside Passage to tranquil interior lakes and Arctic tundra, the state’s varied ecosystems support an extraordinary range of birdlife. If you’re sailing with Princess, you’ll glide through prime wildlife corridors and can add guided excursions designed for birding and broader wildlife viewing.

Below are 17 Alaska birds you’ll want to look for—plus when and where to spot them on a cruise, along with practical tips for making the most of your time on deck and ashore.

When and where to birdwatch on an Alaska cruise

• Peak season: May to September. Spring brings migrants and breeding activity; late summer and early fall feature fledglings and southbound movements.
• Prime habitats you’ll visit:
• Seabird cliffs and islands in Southeast Alaska for puffins, murrelets and harlequin ducks.
• Fjords and coastal forests for bald eagles, ravens, Steller’s jays and belted kingfishers.
• Rivers and fast streams for American dippers and harlequin ducks.
• Interior lakes and wetlands on cruisetours for loons, sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans.
• Tundra and open high country for willow ptarmigan and, more rarely, snowy owls.
• Great vantage points from ship: open decks, the bow and panoramic lounges during scenic cruising in places like Glacier Bay, College Fjord and the Inside Passage.
• Shore time: guided wildlife and nature tours in ports such as Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Skagway and Icy Strait Point increase your chances of close, ethical sightings. Explore available options on Alaska shore excursions.

1. Bald eagle

With up to a 7-foot wingspan, bald eagles are Alaska icons. Look for white heads and tails contrasting with dark bodies, often perched near shorelines and rivers.

Where to spot on a cruise: Common in Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka and Icy Strait Point. Scan treetops and floating ice in fjords. For a focused outing, consider the Alaska Nature & Wildlife Expedition in Skagway.

2. Marbled murrelet

A small, secretive seabird that uniquely nests in old-growth forests. In breeding plumage, its marbled brown tones blend into shaded coastlines.

Where to spot on a cruise: Calm inlets and nearshore waters in Southeast Alaska, especially around old-growth Tongass National Forest.

3. Puffin

Charismatic seabirds with colorful bills and strong diving skills. Tufted and horned puffins both occur in Alaska.

Where to spot on a cruise: Coastal cliffs and rocky islands in Southeast and Southcentral Alaska. Boat-based excursions near Sitka and the Kenai region are ideal.

4. Raven

Highly intelligent and widespread. Glossy black feathers, a deep croak and playful behavior make ravens memorable companions in both towns and wilderness.

Where to spot on a cruise: Everywhere—from port areas to forested trails and open beaches.

5. Willow ptarmigan

Alaska’s state bird. Feathers change from mottled brown in summer to snow-white in winter for camouflage.

Where to spot on a cruise: Most likely on inland segments of an Alaska Cruisetour in tundra and subalpine habitats.

6. Common loon

A symbol of northern lakes. Black-and-white checkered backs, red eyes and haunting calls define the common loon.

Where to spot on a cruise: Interior lakes on cruisetours; occasionally coastal estuaries during migration.

7. Golden eagle

Powerful raptor with golden nape feathers and broad wings. Hunts over open country.

Where to spot on a cruise: Most sightings occur in interior Alaska and higher, open terrain—consider a cruisetour for the best chance.

8. Black-billed magpie

Striking black-and-white corvid with a long, iridescent tail. Social, vocal and curious.

Where to spot on a cruise: More common in Southcentral and Interior Alaska, including Anchorage and along highway corridors on cruisetours.

9. Northern goshawk

A swift forest hawk with slate-gray plumage and fierce eyes. Masters of rapid chases through dense trees.

Where to spot on a cruise: Mature conifer forests of Southeast Alaska; sightings are uncommon but thrilling.

10. Sandhill crane

Tall, elegant birds with red crowns and bugling calls. Known for dramatic courtship dances.

Where to spot on a cruise: Wet meadows and fields in Interior Alaska during migration. Cruisetours to Fairbanks and the interior increase your odds.

11. Snowy owl

A spectacular Arctic predator with white plumage and piercing yellow eyes. Irregular in the south depending on lemming cycles.

Where to spot on a cruise: Rare on standard cruise routes; more likely in far-north tundra. Consider this a special bonus if seen.

12. American dipper

Slate-gray songbird that forages underwater in fast streams. Watch for rhythmic bobbing on streamside rocks.

Where to spot on a cruise: Cascades and rivers near Juneau and Skagway.

13. Steller’s jay

Blue-and-black jay with a prominent crest and bold personality. Common in coastal conifer forests.

Where to spot on a cruise: Forest trails and parks in Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka.

14. Harlequin duck

Compact sea duck with striking slate-blue, white and chestnut markings. Favors turbulent, rocky water.

Where to spot on a cruise: Near boulder-strewn shorelines and river mouths throughout Southeast Alaska.

15. Kingfisher

Belted kingfishers patrol shorelines with rattling calls, diving headfirst for fish using their long bills.

Where to spot on a cruise: Perches over tidal channels, harbors and stream mouths in most Southeast ports.

16. Swainson’s thrush

A woodland songster with a spiraling, flute-like call. Subtle brown-olive plumage helps it vanish in shadowed understory.

Where to spot on a cruise: Quiet forest edges and trails; you’ll often hear them before you see them.

17. Trumpeter swan

North America’s heaviest native waterfowl. Graceful on the water with resonant, trumpet-like calls.

Where to spot on a cruise: Interior lakes and wetlands on cruisetours; also seen in Southcentral Alaska during migration.

Responsible birdwatching tips

• Keep a respectful distance. Use binoculars or a zoom lens; avoid flushing birds from nests or feeding sites.
• Stay on trails and follow guide instructions. Sensitive habitats like seabird cliffs and wetlands need extra care.
• Time your outing. Early morning and late afternoon often bring peak activity and softer light for photography.
• Dress in layers and pack rain protection. Weather shifts quickly along the coast and in the mountains.
• Bring a field guide or app and note behavior, calls and habitat for more accurate IDs.

Experience Alaska birdlife with Princess

A Princess cruise makes reaching remote fjords, seabird rookeries and wildlife-rich forests straightforward and comfortable. Add guided outings tailored to wildlife and natural history to increase your chances of sightings, then return to panoramic decks for scenic cruising where eagles, alcids and marine mammals are frequently in view.

• Explore itineraries: Alaska cruises
• Enhance your wildlife viewing: Alaska shore excursions
• Venture inland for loons, cranes, swans and eagles: Alaska Cruisetours

Birds of Alaska FAQs

Q: How many bird species live in Alaska?
A: Nearly 500 species are recorded statewide, including migratory seabirds, waterfowl, raptors and songbirds.

Q: What is the state bird of Alaska?
A: The willow ptarmigan, which changes from brown in summer to white in winter for camouflage.

Q: When is the best time for birdwatching in Alaska?
A: May through September, when migratory arrivals, breeding and seabird colony activity peak.

Q: Where can you see puffins in Alaska?
A: Along coastal cliffs and islands, especially in Southeast Alaska and on boat excursions.

Q: Are bald eagles common in Alaska?
A: Yes. Alaska has one of the largest bald eagle populations in the U.S., and they’re frequently seen along coasts, rivers and forests.

Q: Can you go birdwatching on an Alaska cruise?
A: Yes. Cruises access fjords, remote coastlines and wildlife-rich waters where passengers often spot eagles, puffins, loons and more.

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