Back by popular demand, the Washington Invasive Species Council is thrilled to announce the 2nd annual Halloween Invasive Species Pet Costume Contest! Demonstrate your creativity, learn about invasive species, AND show off your pet in costume!

This contest intends to raise awareness of the “Don’t Let It Loose” campaign, which seeks to prevent the release of pets into the wild. Unwanted pet or exotic animal should not be set free. Abandoned pets can become an invasive species and cause harm to Washington’s natural resources. See a map of partners throughout the state who can either offer advice or take unwanted pets. Please do not drop off a pet without coordinating with the organization first. More information about the “Don’t Let It Loose” campaign is available below.

Contest Rules

  • Pets must be dressed as a Washington Invasive Species Council priority species.
  • One submission per person. Multiple pets may be in one photo.
  • Anyone can participate, even those outside Washington but pets must be dressed as a council priority species.
  • Children under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian submit on their behalf.

Submissions MUST include all of the following:

  • A photo of the pet dressed as a Washington Invasive Species Council priority invasive species
  • The pet’s name
  • The name of the invasive species the pet is representing
  • One action to take to prevent the invasive species from coming to Washington or moving to new areas of the state.
  • A signed form giving the council rights to your photo and the ability to share it on social media, the council website, and in other council materials. If opting out, be sure to select that box on the form.

Submission Instructions

Please email submissions to: invasivespeciesinfo@rco.wa.gov

Title the email “Invasive Species Pet Costume Contest Submission”

Alternatively, Tag the council on Instagram with the photo and the other requirements listed above @wa_invasivespeciescouncil to submit. This option still requires participants to complete the signed consent form.

Deadline to submit is 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on October 27, 2024.

Winners

First Place= $50 Chewy.com e-gift card

Second Place= $25 Chewy.com e-gift card

Third Place= $10 Chewy.com e-gift card

Winners will be announced on October 31, 2024.

Questions? Email invasivespeciesinfo@rco.wa.gov

FAQ


What is the Washington Invasive Species Council?

The Washington Invasive Species Council was established by the state Legislature in 2006 to coordinate invasive species prevention efforts statewide to sustain Washington’s human, plant, and animal communities and its thriving economy.

What are invasive species?

Invasive species include non-native organisms that cause economic or environmental harm and can spread to new areas of the state. (Domestic livestock, intentionally planted crops, or non-harmful exotic organisms are not considered invasive species). Learn more about Washington invasive species on the council website.

What is “Don’t Let It Loose?”

The goal of this campaign is to increase public awareness of the dangers of releasing into the wild pets and plants that later become invasive species. This campaign encourages people to take steps to combat Washington’s invasive species and their impacts on our natural resources.

How can I stay involved?

Get the app and get involved! Download the WA Invasives app and identify and report invasive species in your community. It’s FREE!