West Virginia is an exceptional destination for wildlife interaction and viewing, offering visitors and residents the chance to connect with nature in a state that proudly values its rich biodiversity and strong cultural affinity for wildlife conservation. From spotting white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys in lush forests to watching migrating birds and rare species in protected areas like Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods, West Virginia provides countless opportunities for unforgettable wildlife experiences. Scenic trails, state parks, and wildlife refuges allow nature lovers and photographers to observe animals in their natural habitats while supporting local conservation efforts. For new residents drawn by the remote-work revolution and a love for the outdoors, West Virginia’s abundant wildlife and community respect for nature make it the perfect place to live, explore, and appreciate the Mountain State’s wild beauty year-round.
Densely wooded, West Virginia may be home to more than its share of bats—wheeling in the twilight as they feed on flying insects. But what have bats to do with the coronavirus outbreak? Most scientists agree the COVID-19 virus was first transmitted from a bat to a human, possibly after a human ate a bat … Read more
Thirteen species of turtle live in West Virginia, though the best known may be the eastern box turtle, which will be on the move this spring. The turtles are a familiar sight in backyards and along hiking trails—and on country roads, where motorists are often at a loss as to how to manage the situation. … Read more
Two gray wolves escaped their enclosure at the West Virginia Wildlife Center, near French Creek, West Virginia, according to a spokesperson for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. The two were euthanized in the interest of public safely after attempts to safely recapture them failed, according to Andy Malinoski. Once common across the eastern … Read more
Students in West Virginia are learning about environmental stewardship by raising trout in their classroom and releasing them into the wild. The interactive program, called Trout in the Classroom, is sponsored by Trout Unlimited and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and is being funded by local supporters. The program was designed to teach … Read more
West Virginia has launched a five-year project to restore northern bobwhite quail, a native species that was decimated during the winters of 1977, 1978, and 1979. Governor Jim Justice announced the launch of the project today while mourning the song of the bird, which was once heard in pastures across the Mountain State. “There’s no … Read more
Motorists visiting the New River Gorge in West Virginia yesterday might have thought they had encountered a two-headed eagle engaged in a fight with itself. While not so astonishing, they were witnessing a sight rarely seen near the New River in the state’s southern mountains, where bald eagles are relative newcomers. Two male bald eagles … Read more
New River Community and Technical College is offering classes in bird-watching and nature exploration in March at its campuses across southeastern West Virginia. Students can expect to learn about bird species, habitats, and activities in the bird-watching classes and plants, animals, and the environment in the nature-exploration classes. Families are encouraged to participate, says Jenni … Read more
Chief Logan State Park is introducing a free bird-watching program on weekends in February, March, and April to welcome novice and ardent bird watchers to the mountainous valley of the Guyandotte River. Park naturalist Lauren Cole says she’s identified 11 spring species in the park, though more may soon be found as participants come to … Read more
MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — On the western edge of the D.C. metro, elusive bobcats roam the darkness in the hills of West Virginia. Biologists would like to know just how many. They’re enlisting the help of trappers in the state’s eastern panhandle and its Allegheny Mountains region, asking trappers to release the cats back into the … Read more
Holly River State Park will host “Snakes of West Virginia,” a family program investigating native West Virginia snakes, at 2 p.m. on July 6, according to officials with the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. Park naturalist Jane Birdsong said division biologist Jim Fregonara will provide families an up-close look at live snakes focused on their … Read more
