Blog
What's happening at AWCC
AWCC Chosen as a 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards Winner
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is proud to announce that we have been recognized as a 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards Winner — an honor that reflects the incredible support of our visitors, members, donors, and wildlife community from around the world. Each...
Tiny bird. Epic journey.
Each summer, Rufous hummingbirds arrive in Alaska after traveling thousands of miles, one of the longest migrations of any bird their size. These tiny birds weigh less than a nickel, yet they complete an extraordinary journey between Alaska and Mexico each year. But...
Portage Christmas Bird Count Recap!
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center was excited to sponsor the Portage Circle of the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count on December 22nd, 2025! What is the Christmas Bird Count? The Christmas Bird Count started in 1900, making it one of the...
Alaska’s Most Persistent Summer Residents: A Love Letter to Mosquitoes
When people imagine Alaska, they picture glaciers, grizzly bears, and mountains glowing under the midnight sun. They do not picture being emotionally defeated by an insect the size of a small sunflower seed. And yet, here we are. Welcome to the wonderful world of...
Alaska Beluga Monitoring Opportunities!
You all know how much we love our Cook Inlet Beluga Whales — and we’re so excited to share that love (and the chance to make a real difference!) with all of you. The Alaska Beluga Monitoring Program (AKBMP) has officially announced their Spring 2026 beluga monitoring...
AWCC Nominated for ‘Best Safari Park’ by USA TODAY 10BEST
Exciting news! The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center has been nominated for Best Safari Park in USA TODAY 10BEST’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Voting is open for the next four weeks, and readers can cast one vote per day through Monday, March 9 at 11:59 a.m. EDT. The...
Fun and Engaging Field Trips at AWCC!
Attention teachers and parents! Looking for a fun and educational field trip to engage your students with Alaskan wildlife? Look no further! Join the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for a fun and engaging learning experience! We offer a variety of ways to connect...
2025 Education Department Recap!
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center’s Education Department experienced meaningful growth in 2025, expanding public engagement, increasing program offerings, and strengthening professional and community outreach. These gains reflect our continued commitment to...
Meet the Musk Ox: Ice Age Survivors of Alaska
At first glance, musk oxen look like something straight out of the Ice Age—and that’s because they are. These shaggy, powerful animals have roamed the Arctic for thousands of years, surviving extreme cold, fierce winds, and long, dark winters. At the Alaska Wildlife...
What’s Happening at AWCC: Upcoming Events You Won’t Want to Miss!
At the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, we’re more than a wildlife sanctuary—we’re a hub for community, education, and unforgettable experiences with Alaska’s incredible animals and natural world. From appreciation days to family-friendly festivals and unique...
AWCC Shoutout on TODAY: Top Vacation Destinations for 2026!
TODAY recently released its list of top travel destinations for 2026, and Girdwood, Alaska earned a well-deserved spot among them. The feature highlighted the area’s stunning scenery, outdoor recreation, and unique Alaskan experiences—and made sure to include the...









