Animals and Plants

Animals

Many species of amphibians, birds, butterflies, mammals and more can be found within the Umatilla National Forest. Some species may use the Forest during migration, some spend the breeding season here, and others live here year-round. Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife and Washington Department of Fish & wildlife have useful information about the wildlife found within Northeast Oregon and Southeast Washington. 

Respect Wildlife

National forests provide habitats for all kinds of wildlife. We are visitors in their home.

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The consequences of approaching wildlife can be serious. You are responsible for your own safety as well as the safety of wildlife. Wild animals should be allowed to forage for food, care for their young, sleep, and play without human disturbance.

• Don't leave your food, including pet food, out in the open when not being used.
• Never approach or feed wild animals.
• Wild animals are individualistic and unpredictable.
• Always maintain a safe distance
• Young animals are rarely orphaned, so leave them where you find them. Leave young wildlife wild.

Learn more about living with wildlife on the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) website and the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) website.

Plants

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The Umatilla National Forest is home to a diverse array of plants shaped by the areas mix of mountains, canyons, rolling plateaus, and river valleys. Plants within this area are both resilient and adaptable as they endure cold winters, hot summers, fire, and more. Visit the PLANTS database to view additional information about Native and Invasive plant species. 

Native Plants

Native plants are crucial for supporting local ecosystems, wildlife, and biodiversity, acting as the foundation for food chains and providing essential habitat and food sources. They also offer benefits like reduced water and maintenance needs and help with soil health and erosion control. 

Invasive Plants

Invasive, non-native plants can displace native plants and cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage statewide each year. Be on the lookout for invasive, non-native plant species. Learn to identify them and report them. Equally

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 important is learning how to prevent spreading them.

Here are a few things that you can do to fight invasive plants and preserve the plant species native to your region:

• Do not pick the flowers of noxious weeds and take them home.
• Drive only on established roads and trails away from weed infested areas.
• When using pack animals, carry only feed that is certified weed free.
• Remove weed seeds from pack animals.
• Don't pick and transport wildflowers that you can't identify.
• Do not camp or drive in weed infested areas.

Visit the Invasive Species webpage to learn more!