Wild about wildlife Alaska’s rich and diverse ecosystems give life to an abundance of mammals and marine life. From the mountains to the tundra and ocean, the animals that call Alaska’s land and waters home are unparalleled. Humpback, Gray Whale, & Orca Humpback whale breaching, Chatham Strait in the Inside Passage 38 SuperStock/Alamy Get up close and personal with these majestic maritime creatures on whale watching tours and day cruises. Spring tours are best for gray whales, while summer is prime humpback and orca season.