Critter of the Month

Critter of the Month gives a peek into the lives of Puget Sound’s least-known inhabitants – mud-dwelling invertebrates collected by the Marine Sediment Monitoring Team. Each month we feature a different species or group, giving information on identification, habitat, and life history.
Critter of the Month gives a peek into the lives of Puget Sound’s least-known inhabitants – mud-dwelling invertebrates collected by the Marine Sediment Monitoring Team. Each month we feature a different species or group, giving information on identification, habitat, and life history.

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Beware of cute little monsters: The jelly-dwelling anemone has a spooky secret
Step aside, Alien. Puget Sound has its very own version of this famous parasitic predator, but without the terrifying claws or fangs.
Snuggle up! The common slipper snail gets close for comfort
The first days of fall are here, and nothing makes me want to pile on the cozy layers like the arrival of the rainy season. This month’s critter embodies the fashion motto of 2020: comfort is IN.
Life’s a beach for the false sandcastle worm
With its beachy name and sandy dwelling, the false sandcastle worm is the quintessential beach bum.
Citizen scientists help Ecology monitor the environment
Every day we work closely with fellow Washingtonians to monitor and study our shared environment. Here are just a few examples of how we partner with citizen scientists throughout the state.
The arrow worms: Part worm, part fish, part…tiger?
Let’s get “straight to the point”: the arrow worm is “right on target” to be named one of the strangest creatures roaming Puget Sound.
Here comes the sun! The golden petal worm shines like the rays of the spring sun
This month’s critter has a set of flowery petals that shine through the dark waters of Puget Sound like the golden rays of the sun.
The solitary pink-mouth hydroid keeps it together (at a distance)
The solitary pink mouth hydroid demonstrates that it might just be possible to embrace togetherness – at a safe distance.
Stuck at home? Get cozy like the tunicate amphipod
Meet the tunicate amphipod, a critter that embraces the comforts of home like no other.
It ain’t easy being green…unless you’re a kelp humpback shrimp
Top o’ the morning to you! Take a lesson in wearing green from the kelp humpback shrimp, who woke up dressed and ready in its Irish best.
Explore your sweet (or bitter) side this Valentine’s Day with the western bittersweet
This Valentines day, celebrate our most complicated emotions and learn more about the western bittersweet.