Roads have become an important part of modern life, helping people get around and connecting communities. Yet, their widespread presence comes with significant ecological costs, particularly impacting wildlife populations. Some recent studies have revealed how roads negatively affect native Virginia species like amphibians and salamanders. Amphibians are particularly susceptible to road mortality due to their… Read more
While Wild Virginia works to protect and connect our state’s wild places by improving habitat connectivity, preventing PFAS pollution, protecting water quality, and inspiring citizens to want to advocate for their natural spaces in Virginia, we started by fighting timber sales and logging projects via Virginia’s public land. This weekend, the White House Administration signed… Read more
Wildlife crossings are becoming more widely recognized for reducing wildlife-vehicle conflicts, habitat connectivity, and contributing toward driver safety. Even more notable is their role in supporting biodiversity during times of climate change. A recent paper on the impact of wildlife crossings for climate adaptation highlights how strategically designed wildlife crossings can help wildlife adapt to… Read more
Are highway widening projects really infrastructure improvements? State transportation agencies would want you to believe the answer is yes, but a closer look at the effects of road widenings and how these agencies defend them point to a different answer. The Freeway Fighters Network is an advocacy group committed to transportation infrastructure that focuses of the improvement… Read more
Driving through the scenic routes of Virginia in October and November can be a breathtaking experience with the fall foliage. However, it’s also a time to be vigilant about wildlife that may unexpectedly cross your path. Here are some animals to be on the lookout for: Deer Black Bears Wild Turkeys Foxes Raccoons Safety Tips… Read more
The diamondback terrapin was once so closely associated with Maryland that the state’s leading university adopted the terp as its mascot, and it holds the title of the official state reptile. In Virginia, it is illegal to collect diamondback terrapins for commercial or personal use. However, this species has encountered significant challenges, initially from overharvesting for food and… Read more
The Virginia Conservation Network released their Our Common Agenda, 2025 Environmental Briefing Book, including 170+ organizations, 99 environmental experts, 49 environmental priorities! Our Common Agenda is the most comprehensive overview of Virginia’s environmental policy landscape. Leading conservation experts provide the background for Virginia’s existing environmental policies that are in place, why the issue matters, and… Read more
Aquatic habitat connectivity refers to the seamless linkages between different aquatic environments, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, that allow for the movement of organisms. This connectivity is crucial for the health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. It enables fish and other aquatic species to access essential habitats for spawning, feeding, and shelter, promoting biodiversity… Read more
As the warmth of early summer spreads across our state, it brings not only lush greenery but also a significant increase in wildlife activity. For drivers traveling along Virginia’s roads, this means it is even more important to be on the lookout for unexpected encounters with various animal species. 5 Wildlife Species on the Roads… Read more
Black bear collisions are on the rise in Virginia. Make sure to pay special attention to the road when there are any animal crossing warning signs. You may encounter a warning sign that is flashing and this indicates that the animal is close by. Always slow down in these areas. Here in Virginia, we are blessed to share… Read more