Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed in both domestic and wild birds in Canada and the United States. The strain now present in North America has caused illness and death in waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls, and birds of prey. Birds that migrate to Alaska to nest and breed could be infected. Learn more including steps hunters can take to reduce infection risk and how to report observations/concerns. See also: Alaska Bird FAQ: if it's sick, abandoned, injured or dead
Our visitor center remains closed to the public. Limited virtual and outdoor education programs are available. Please continue to check back here or on our Facebook page for updates and information about our available programs and events. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is following federal, state, and local public health authority guidance as we continue responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Location and Contact Information
Our Library
Past and present projects and research conducted on Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge.
Get Involved
Kodiak welcomes and relies on volunteers, Friends, and interns to accomplish refuge goals in all aspects of conservation and education!
Common volunteer opportunities include cabin maintenance, invasive plant control, berry surveys, bird banding, and staffing the visitor center.
Volunteer opportunities on the Refuge include float plane or boat transportation to the Refuge, as well as meals and lodging, but trips to the Refuge require aviation and bear safety training to be completed in advance so be sure to plan ahead.
We welcome youth volunteers to assist with several refuge programs. Opportunities include: The Kodiak Refuge Youth Leadership (KRYL) Program, Salmon Camp Aide, Avian Monitoring (bird banding), Visitor Center Guide and assisting our staff with events and environmental education programs.
Projects and Research
Diverse island ecosystems, abundant fish and wildlife, and a remote wildland setting serve as an ideal outdoor laboratory. Working jointly, biologists with the Refuge, State of Alaska, and U.S. Geological Survey monitor populations of Kodiak brown bear, bald eagle, salmon and other fish and wildlife and their habitats to estimate trends in abundance, survival, and productivity. The Refuge also sponsors and conducts basic and applied research projects, develops monitoring methods, and evaluates management strategies.
By designing and implementing appropriate research and monitoring studies, the Refuge will better understand, conserve, and protect its natural and cultural resources for the continuing benefit of the public.