You’re out for a walk on a breezy spring day—bunnies dart across a neighbor’s porch, birds call from the treetops and insects of all kinds scatter across flowers.
From bees to black bears, there’s no doubt that Issaquah Highlands is surrounded by diverse wildlife in our own yards and nearby parks. I found myself wondering: How many animals can I find while walking around the community?
So, I created the Issaquah Highlands Wildlife Scavenger Hunt for my neighbors to complete throughout summer. Over the next couple months, take some time to walk outside, explore your neighborhood and see how many critters you can spot!
Wildlife Safety Reminder: While exploring, please observe all animals from a safe distance. Do not approach, feed or attempt to touch any wildlife. Stay on designated trails, keep noise levels down and avoid disturbing natural habitats. This scavenger hunt is meant to encourage appreciation—not interaction.
1. Bunny
Fun Fact: Cottontail rabbits are most active at dawn and dusk.
Where to Spot: Look near grassy lawns, flower beds and quiet trails.
2. Bee
Fun Fact: Native bees are essential pollinators for our gardens and trees.
Where to Spot: Hovering around blooming flowers—check out a flowery streetscape or neighborhood planters.
3. Deer
Fun Fact: Deer are common in this area and often travel in small groups.
Where to Spot: In the early morning or evening near wooded areas or nibbling plants along trail edges.
4. Raccoon
Fun Fact: These clever animals are mostly nocturnal and have highly sensitive front paws.
Where to Spot: Around storm drains, garbage bins or wooded backyards—often spotted after dark.
5. Bird
Fun Fact: Issaquah Highlands is home to songbirds, woodpeckers and even hawks. You might even spot an owl in the woods.
Where to Spot: Listen and look in the trees throughout the community.
6. Moth or Butterfly
Fun Fact: Look for swallowtails or cabbage whites fluttering through sunny areas.
Where to Spot: Flowering gardens or along sidewalks with wildflowers.
7. Insect of Choice
Fun Fact: From ladybugs to beetles to dragonflies, insects play big roles in ecosystems.
Where to Spot: Near standing water, shrubs or mulch beds. Just crouch down and look closely!
8. Coyote
Fun Fact: Coyotes are adaptable and sometimes mistaken for dogs from a distance.
Where to Spot: Sometimes spotted trotting near trails or greenbelts at dawn or dusk. You might hear them before you see them!
9. Black Bear (Rare Find!)
Fun Fact: Black bears are shy and usually only seen near forested areas when searching for food.
Where to Spot: Sightings may happen near protected green spaces. Never approach—only observe from a distance!
10. Bobcat (Rare Find!)
Fun Fact: Bobcats are elusive and mostly nocturnal, but they have been seen along the Grand Ridge trails.
Where to Spot: Heavily wooded areas and protected forest corridors. Leave them be if you’re lucky enough to see one!
Once you’ve spotted at least seven of these wildlife neighbors, submit your completed checklist below to claim a custom Issaquah Highlands Tile Tracker.
Jeric Yuen is vice president of the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board and lives in the Central Park neighborhood. He is an incoming junior at Issaquah High School.
