Wildlife wins and loses during a wet, warm winter

What does a warm, wet winter mean for the valley’s plants and animals?

“Animals are designed for average conditions,” said Carl Koch, assistant area wildlife biologist with the Department of Fish and Game in Juneau, “and this year is anything but average.”

Lots of rain and low snow favor many herbivores, but threaten those that rely on snow for protection and insulation.

Ungulates like mountain goats and moose will do well this year, Koch said.…