Non-Hunted Animals and Protected Species

Some big game animals are not hunted in Washington. The grizzly bear, caribou, and pronghorn antelope are found in very small numbers in certain parts of the state; therefore, they may not be hunted. 

In addition to these big game animals, many other animals are classified as protected wildlife. No protected wildlife may be hunted. Included in the classification of protected wildlife are the western gray squirrel, the Douglas squirrel, chipmunks, the pika, and the hoary marmot. Other wildlife species are classified as “endangered.” Some of the endangered species in Washington include the wolf and the sandhill crane. Check the regulations or contact WDFW before hunting if you are unsure if a species is open for harvest.