July – August 2022 Issue
Cover: Lori Cash of Hampton wins the cover with her touching Virginia Fauna entry of a red fox vixen being nuzzled by one of her kits.
Virginia Fauna
Native birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects.
Textures and Patterns
Textures and patterns found in nature.
Trail Cameras
Images that reveal the secret lives of our native wildlife.
Celebrate Virginia's Native Plants
Plants that are native to the fields, forests, and waterways of Virginia.
May – June 2022 Issue
Cover: A prescribed burn in Big Woods WMA. Photo by Meghan Marchetti/DWR
Good Fire on the Mountain
Deploying prescribed fire has significant benefits for wildlife and their habitats.
Marshall McDonald Left His Legacy in Virginia’s Fisheries
The inventions and ideas of this 19th century fisheries commissioner made an impact that’s still visible today.
Explore the Wild with Primitive Camping on Wildlife Management Areas
Primitive camping is another way to enjoy Wildlife Management Areas.
Awaken the Senses While Float Fishing
Spending time floating down the river can connect you to the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world.
Leonard Lee Rue III Captures Wildlife Like No Other
The legendary wildlife photographer, videographer, and author has lived a fascinating life and made an impact on the world of wildlife conservation.
The Spawning Behavior of Smallmouth Bass
As Virginia’s waters warm, this popular sport fish begins to reproduce.
March – April 2022 Issue
Cover: A Shenandoah salamander (Plethodon shenandoah) crawls toward the photographer. Photo by Ann and Rob Simpson
A Search for the Living Jewels of the Appalachian Mountains
Virginia hosts more than 50 species of salamanders, all unique and fascinating creatures that are often overlooked.
Keeping Up with the Peregrines
The live stream video of a breeding pair of peregrine falcons is entertaining and educational for the public, but also provides valuable data for biologists.
No Turkey Yet
Hunting turkey isn't easy. It takes time in the woods and lots of patience.
Using Small Spaces to Support Pollinators
The Virginia Department of Transportation is taking advantage of roadside sites to plant pollinator-friendly vegetation.
Citizen Science is a Great Way to Connect Kids to Nature
Getting children engaged with the natural world expands their horizons.
Dynamic, Dazzling Darters
These bright, unique fish are often overlooked in Virginia's waters, but they're fun to find.
January – February 2022 Issue
Cover: A juvenile red-tailed hawk awaits its opportunity to hunt. Photo by Meghan Marchetti
Falconry Gives a Front Row View of Nature at Work
The ancient art of hunting with raptors requires dedication and passion for the sport and the birds.
Catching Up with Jim Crumley
The creator of Trebark camouflage turned an idea into an empire, but he still enjoys the simple life in Virginia.
Seldom Seen: Virginia's Flying Squirrels
These nocturnal, gliding rodents are as fascinating as they are elusive.
Caught on Camera: Game on WMAs
Trail cameras show ample populations of game species on Wildlife Management Areas.
Eels Keep the Mystery Alive
Eels have baffled us for millenia, but now we know enough to help them survive.
November – December 2021 Issue
Cover: A lesser scaup is one of many types of waterfowl that can be hunted. Photo by B.N. Singh
Marvin's 1100
A classic gun evokes memories of an early morning mishap.
Menace of the Marsh
Nutria, an invasive rodent species, threatens Virginia's wetland wildlife habitats.
DWR's PALS Program is a Great Way to Explore the Wild
The PALS program opened up new hunting opportunities in Southwest Virginia for this avid outdoorsman.
Old Bucks are Different
Mature white-tailed bucks can be crafty and elusive; these tips can help you outwit them.
Elk in Virginia
After nine years, a herd of more than 275 elk is doing well in Virginia.
Biodiversity is on Display at the State Arboretum of Virginia
The trees and plants of the State Arboretum and Blandy Farm provide a home for wildlife and research.
September – October 2021 Issue
Cover: A Rapidan River brook trout captured in mid-fight. Photo by Kyle LaFerriere
Give Tenkara a Try
This ancient technique of fly fishing is simple, elegant, and effective.
Your Trout Stocking Questions Answered
Anglers have questions, and the DWR fisheries staff has answers.
The Life Cycle of an Eastern Brook
See how this colorful and unique species reproduces.
David Turner Brings the Wild to Life in Bronze
This sculptor combines his artistic talent and passion for wildlife conservation to create remarkable pieces.
The Sensory Explorers' Trail Allows Everyone to Enjoy the Outdoors
Innovative details engage all the senses on this unique trail at Sky Meadows State Park.
From Delicacy to Decline: A Tale of the Diamond-backed Terrapin
The Northern diamond-backed terrapin has played an interesting role in the culture and history of Virginia's shore over the centuries.
Also...
Working for Wildlife, Explore Enjoy WMA profile, and the columns A Walk in the Woods, Off the Leash, Photo Tips, Fare Game, and Good Reads.
July – August 2021 Issue
Cover: Wally Pendleton of North Chesterfield wins the cover with his gorgeous Virginia Fauna entry of a luna moth resting on caladium. Nikon D7100 DSLR camera, Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VRlens, ISO 320, 1/100, f/8.
Virginia Fauna
Native birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects.
Textures and Patterns
Textures and patterns found in nature.
Trail Cameras
Images that reveal the secret lives of our native wildlife.
What's Your Wild?
Photographers share images that reveal how they feel in touch with nature and the outdoors.
May – June 2021 Issue
Cover: A wood turtle swims in a stream, searching for food. Photo by Steven David Johnson
Shell Game
Illegal trade in freshwater turtles and tortoises is a bigger problem than many realize.
Reconnecting to the Outdoors During COVID
The pandemic sparked new and renewed interest in outdoor recreation.
See Below the Surface
River Snorkeling gives a fascinating and educational perspective to Virginia's fish.
Tie on a Streamer!
Try one of these 12 top streamer flies and great tactics for a fun, effective day of fishing.
Explore the Wild with the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail
Virginia's unique guide for viewing wildlife enters its third decade.
What You Need to Know About Sarcoptic Mange in Black Bears
Reporting an animal with this highly contagious skin disease is the best course of action.
Also...
Working for Wildlife, the Angler Hall of Fame, and the columns A Walk in the Woods, On the Water, Photo Tips, Fare Game, and Good Reads.
March – April 2021 Issue
Cover: An Atlantic sturgeon breaches in the James River at Richmond. Photo by Rob Sabatini
Ghosts No More
How a coordinated approach has helped Atlantic sturgeon rebound in Virginia's rivers.
Hunting Changed Lock Dolinger's Life
Outdoor pursuits have helped this teenager adjust to rural Virginia life after adoption from China.
Nature Where You Least Expect it
In highly developed Hampton Roads, a trio of distinctive green spaces provide critical wildlife habitat, foster healthy communities, and spur neighborhood revitalization.
Wildflowers and Foxes - A Unique Connection
A photo essay about how wildflowers and foxes have a beautiful connection that not many folks know about.
Virginia's Unsung Catfishes
They might not be flashy or massive, but madtoms are essential in Virginia's waters.
10 Tactics for Quiet Toms
It helps to have a variety of strategies to try when gobblers go silent.
January – February 2021 Issue
Cover: Ritual courtship display of common terns. Photo by Shutterstock/Sergey Uryadnikov
If You Build It, They Will Come
How DWR relocated Virginia's largest seabird colony on a tight timeline.
Reading Sign to Find River Otters
These curious creatures are enchanting, but elusive.
An Expert at Age 11
Kavon Norris made earning his Expert Angler certificate a goal, but he's just getting started.
Of Bear Cubs, Restless Winters, and Research
How GOS collars are helping orphaned bear cubs and improving biologists' understanding of bears in Virginia's Piedmont region.
Make a Different Mentoring
A youth outdoor club can be an excellent way to introduce young people to hunting.
Adventure Awaits
Exploring the wild with a public land adventure trip can be extremely rewarding.
Farewell, Spike
A tribute to noted artist and author Carl "Spike" Knuth.
November – December 2020 Issue
Cover: A white-tailed doe tries to hide in a frosty field. Photo by Tommy Kirk
Amy Barr Enjoys the Art of the Hunt
This single mother taught herself how to hunt after age 40 and values the peace she finds in the woods.
2020 White-tailed Deer & Waterfowl Forecast
DWR biologists share their insights on deer and waterfowl seasons based on current data, weather impacts, and field observations.
Dr. Mamie A. Parker Wants to Make Room for Everyone Outdoors
This DWR board member has made conservation her life's work.
Preston Thompson Carves Decoys that Work and Win
This Essex County artist creates works of art that also work in the field.
A Dog Unlike Any Other
These hunting breeds from Italy, France, Spain, and Germany definitely stand out.
The Common Raven is Anything But Ordinary
Get to know this remarkably adaptive and resilient bird known for its acrobatic flight and intelligence.
Bow Hunting in the Burbs
The DWR urban archery season helps manage deer populations in densely populated areas.
September – October 2020 Issue
Cover: "I was very impressed with this fish's face because of the striking tiger spots and the blue cheek that big male brown trout often exhibit," said photographer Patrick Clayton of Engbretson Underwater Photography
DWR Trout Stocking Explained
What goes into the Department of Wildlife Resources' trout-stocking program?
#VATroutSlam Tales
A look at some of the anglers who accomplished the Virginia Trout Slam Challenge.
Four-Legged Enforcers and Friend
The nine dogs of the DWR K9 Conservation Police force serve Virginia with unique skills and a wag of the tail.
A New Mindset for the 21st Century Bird Hunter
The 21st century Virginia upland bird hunter has to develop a new mindset to enjoy the sport.
Fast and Furious: Fall Hawk Migration
Bird enthusiasts in the Commonwealth flock to mountaintop sites to watch the annual spectacle of hawk migration.
Mixed News After 10 Years of White-Nose Syndrome
Virginia's bat populations have seen significant declines in certain species after a decade of white-nose syndrome, but other species seem stable.
July – August 2020 Issue
Cover: Edward Episcopo captured this image of an egret in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge in April of 2019. "I especially enjoy the beautiful images in the Photography Showcase issue, so I'm honored to have one of my photos on the cover," he said.
Virginia Fauna
Native mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and aquatic life.
Textures and Patterns
Textures and patterns found in nature.
Trail Cameras
Images that reveal the secret lives of our native wildlife.
Virginia is for Outdoor Lovers
To celebrate last year's 50th anniversary for the Virginia is for Lovers slogan, this category is for images of people enjoying our state and national parks, as well as DWR's wildlife management areas.
May – June 2020 Issue
Cover: In more than 25 years observing and photographing ospreys throughout the Southeast, I have never see one of these remarkable raptors tackle such a large fish like the one featured on this month's cover, writes photographer Todd Pusser
Goin’ to the River
The author, noted conservationist, educator, and naturalist John Page Williams, shares some of his favorite spots on Virginia’s rivers, full of beauty, wildlife, and history.
Birdwatching Opportunities Abound at Hog Island Wildlife Management Area
For diversity and abundance of species, it’s hard to beat the bird-watching at Hog Island Wildlife Management Area.
Bringing the Bass Back to Back Bay
Fifty years ago, anglers pulled largemouth bass out of Back Bay by the handful, but then it all ended. Now, Back Bay is bouncing back.
Rehabilitators Fill a Vital Role for Wildlife
Wildlife rehabilitators help injured and orphaned wildlife transition back to their natural habitat.
Grab a Paddle and Go!
If you paddle, Virginia is full of opportunities. The print magazine article includes five great destinations to check out, and there are five more at the link below!
Conservation at Work: Get to Know Sarah Colletti
Sarah Colletti is putting a lifetime of outdoor experience and advocacy to work for Virginia’s natural resources, including freshwater mussel propagation and restoration.
Photographing the Night Sky
DGIF’s Digital Outreach Coordinator David Murr shares his passion for night sky photography and gives a few tips on how to get started capturing the wonders of the nightscape.
And More in the Columns...
Regular columns Off the Leash, A Walk in the Woods, Let’s Grow Native, Out & About, and Fare Game cover humor, observing the natural world, planting native habitat, a recipe from noted chef Wade Truong, and more.
March – April 2020 Issue
Cover: Writer and photographer Mike Roberts' striking portrait of a wild turkey was the perfect choice for the cover of this issue, which also features his photo essay of the spring turkey woods. © Mike Roberts.
Download Issue (PDF)Who Needs a Boat?
With so many fishing piers around the state, Virginia offers numerous opportunities for anglers without needing a boat!
Spring Turkey Woods
A visit to the spring woods is not only for hunting that big gobbler; it is also a time to take in nature's beauty as the forest comes alive.
Hatcheries Make Fish Happen
DGIF raises a variety of fish at nine hatcheries across the state. Stop in at one to see what goes into raising and stocking fish.
There's More to Mushrooms than Morels
If you want to try another type of harvesting, why not make it for edible mushrooms? Find a mentor and enoy the hunt.
One Shot Brings Samantha McInteer Full Circle
She might be young but this lady has it going on! The One Shot Turkey Hunt brings this teenager a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
January – February 2020 Issue
Cover: A chocolate Labrador retriever enjoys a day of shed hunting. © Tommy Kirkland
Download Issue (PDF)Giving a Helping Hand to Bluebirds
Members of the Virginia Bluebird Society build nest boxes to keep bluebirds happy. Learn how to build your own bluebird box.
Soldier, Coach, and Mentor
A retired Marine’s dedication to archery and teaching impacts countless kids.
Warm Up to Yellow Perch!
Don’t let cold weather keep you from enjoying the best time of the year for catching big, tasty yellow perch!
Searching for Sheds
Put on your hiking boots and go outdoors for a fun family activity that also provides valuable lessons in the great outdoors.
Tie One Off This Winter
Winter is a great time of the year to stock up on trout flies by tying your own. Why not give it a try?
November – December 2019 Issue
Cover: After a fierce battle, this buck turns to his awaiting prize. Photo by Tes Jolly
Download Issue (PDF)Deer & Waterfowl Forecasts
DGIF biologists share their insights on deer and waterfowl seasons based on current data, weather impacts, and field observations.
In Memory of Deer Camp
Fond memories of deer camp continue to instill a love for the outdoors and the people who shared it.
Savoring the Seasons
While hunting, or just being in the woods, allow your senses to reveal the beautiful and intriguing natural world around you.
Save the Quail
A labor of love, landowners work hard to create more habitat for declining quail and pollinator populations.
Master V Angler
Faster than line peeling off a reel, more powerful than a 46-lb. flathead catfish, able to catch the most citations in Virginia... It's MASTER V Angler Stephen Miklandric!
Three Seasons for Success
If you learn to use the wind, terrain, and food sources in your favor, you can harvest trophy deer in all three deer hunting seasons.
September – October 2019 Issue
Cover: J.D. Kleopfer poses with a common snapping turtle. Photo by Meghan Marchetti/DGIF
Download Issue (PDF)New Regulations to Protect Virginia's Snapping Turtles
Declining snapping turtle populations called for protective measures.
Virginia's "New" Smith River
Trophy trout abound in these productive tailwaters.
In Pursuit of the Mystery Marsh Bird
A kayak can offer a stealthy option when hunting for the elusive rail.
Fox Squirrels on the Rebound
Expanding populations of fox squirrels offer new hunting opportunities around the state.
Window on the Marsh
A thoughtful gift awakens memories of cherished times.
2020 Trout Program Maps
Fisheries biologists share the latest trout fishing locations.
July – August 2019 Issue
Cover: A male bluebird, with food for his chicks, is about to land on a nest box when this image was captured using multiple flashes to freeze the action. Photo by Randy Steufert, Lorton.
Download Issue (PDF)Virginia Fauna
Native mammals and birds (game and non-game), Year of the Bird 2018, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and aquatic life.
Virginia Landscapes and Flora
Scenic landscapes and native flowers, trees, shrubs, and plants, including mushrooms and lichens.
The Sporting Life
Wildlife-related activities afield (game and non-game).
Textures and Patterns
Textures and patterns found in nature.
Trail Cameras
Images that reveal the secret lives of our native wildlife.
May – June 2019 Issue
Cover: Nothing says summer like fishing for bluegill and other panfish. Photo by Eric Engbretson
Download Issue (PDF)Top Dog
Winning the National Open Championship is no small task, but a retriever named Google proves to be the ultimate search engine!
A Smorgasbord of Tips for Catching Summer Panfish
Tips for filling your cooler with an assortment of tasty panfish.
Bird Life
Citizen science reaches new heights at Goshen Wildlife Management Area.
Start a Nature Journal
Journaling has a history of teaching a person to really see what's around them. Why not give it a try?
Working Together
In partnership with Massanutten Resort, DGIF is working to minimize human-bear conflicts.
"Eye" Want You to Know
Take some precautions to help make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable.
Take It to the Bank
Don't have a boat? No worries. Good fishing can be had along a shoreline.
March – April 2019 Issue
Call of the Wild
After a 45-year career in wildlife, our Executive Director Bob Duncan writes a memorable goodbye.
The Wily Coyote
One of the most adaptable animals in North America, the coyote plays a necessary role in Virginia and is here to stay.
Grassroots: A Story of Virginia's Working Landscapes
Landowners are partnering with organizations and citizen scientists to create landscapes that promote biodiversity.
Special Regulation Trout: Something for Everyone
A look at five of the numerous rivers and streams designated as "special regulation,
Seldom Seen: spring is for Spotted Salamanders
In the chill of early spring, spotted salamanders play out a rarely observed, age-old drama.
Working Together
Teaming up with Ducks Unlimited, DGIF works to improve wildlife habitat on the Princess Anne and Hog Island WMAs.
Hunting Spring Gobblers 101
Want to try spring gobbler hunting? Check out this article on how to get started.
January – February 2019 Issue
Cover: The adaptable bobcat lives throughout Virginia. Photo by Rue Wildlife Photos
Download Issue (PDF)Masters of Adaptation
A top predator, the elusive bobcat is more widespread in Virginia than one might imagine.
The Pioneers
Early and influential inhabitants of the Eastern Shore changed a way of thinking by using conservation to protect hunting for all.
On the Road for Kestrels
A surprising decline in this once-common falcon sends volunteers out to give them a place to raise their young.
Fishing Season is Almost Here!
Now's the time to clean out the old tackle box, respool the reels, and get ready for another great fishing season.
Virginia's Most Mysterious Birds
You might be surprised to discover the variety of owls that make Virginia home. And whoooo doesn't love owls?
Manage Forests for Diversity
Timbering a forest might look bad but, if managed properly, has been proven to offer many benefits to a wide variety of wildlife.
November – December 2018 Issue
Cover: A handsome, battle-worn buck watches from a frosty meadow. Photo by Ryan Yoder
Download Issue (PDF)Deer & Waterfowl Forecast
DGIF biologists share their insights on deer and waterfowl seasons based on current data, weather impacts, and field observations.
Sanctuaries for Success
Think private resort with open buffet. One farmer-sportsman advocates for leaving the deer alone.
Bundle Up and Enjoy: Winter Striper Fishing
When temperatures dip, you may find lake conditions perfect for hooking a hefty striped bass.
Making Something Out of Nothing
A lifelong hunter turns his love for wildlife into creating treasures of folk art.
The Reigning King of the Southwest
Elk are calling all wildlife watchers to southwest Virginia, where the drama unfolds and the herd is thriving.
Then and Now
Waterfowlers consider how hunting has changed over time on the Eastern Shore, and urge mentors to step up.
Unintended Consequences of Fighting Pests
A cautionary tale explains how difficult it is to wage war on opponents that adapt and change.
September – October 2018 Issue
Cover: A female prothonotary warbler brings caterpillars to her young. Photo by Mike Roberts
Download Issue (PDF)How Sweet Sweet Sweet It Is!
With support from the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation, volunteers, and business partners, a citizen science project aims to help a magnificent songbird in the Roanoke River basin.
Hunting: A Foundation for Life
A childhood spent afield gives the author reason to reflect upon a simpler time, one that deeply shaped his values.
Women Afield: Finally
There are many reasons to cheer the trend of women's interest in hunting and fishing, and the outdoors industry takes note.
What's Up With Cobia?
Virginia is taking a lead in sound management of this game fish through multi-state coordination, tagging efforts, and citation data.
For the Love of Snakes
Snakes are given a bad rap, but a little knowledge and the right support group can help you overcome your fears.
The Evolution of Cute
Nature has endowed young wildlife with a number of strategies for survival, cuteness being one of them.
2019 Trout Maps
Fisheries biologists share the latest trout stocking locations.
July – August 2018 Issue
Cover: Laura McGranaghan and her husband went out for an evening stroll and spotted this beautiful Eastern red bat hanging from one of their cedar trees. Photo by Laura McGranaghan
Virginia Fauna
Native mammals (game and non-game), birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Virginia Landscapes
Native plants, trees, flowers, and scenic landscapes.
The Sporting Life
Wildlife-related activities afield (game and non-game).
Textures and Patterns
Abstract designs as textures and patterns found in nature.
May – June 2018 Issue
Cover: Photo by Clay Bolt
Lost Before Found
Scientists at the state's Natural Heritage Program scramble to build an inventory of native bees and protect those most at risk.
Prince Edward's Other Lake
Not far from Farmville sits a lake that rivals the largemouth bass fishing at Briery—especially in the citation range.
Mafic Fens: Diamonds of the Blue Ridge
Quiet dramas unfold in these seeps and stream bottoms, but their palette of spring colors and textures is unmatched.
What's Going On with the Butcher Bird?
Working with partners, DGIF biologists trap and band loggerhead shrikes to gain insight into the bird's decline.
All Four Seasons in One Day
It's tough enough for people, but think about the strategies animals must employ to deal with Virginia's weather.
Sit-on-Tops for Water Fun?
Follow these tips to get started and even work in a little fishing.
Do Blue Cats Deserve All the Hype?
The results are in and the answers lie in their stomach contents.
2017 Angler Hall of Fame & NASP Photo Gallery
Look who made the lists this year and take a peek at the winners of the state NASP tournament!
March – April 2018 Issue
Cover: Photo by Eric Angbretson
What It Takes
Ask most Conservation Police Officers and they will tell you, it's not a job but a lifestyle.
Saint Mary's Wilderness: An Ecosystem in Flux
If you're looking for pristine trout waters and wilderness surroundings, you will find it here.
Pollinator Waystation
Spurred by citizen action, a well-placed garden of native plants benefits commuters of every stripe.
A Tidal Wave of Success
Anglers and fisheries managers celebrate a successful comeback for largemouth bass in the lower Chickahominy River.
Gain the Home Court Advantage
A bit of behavioral analysis goes a long way toward successful pursuit of turkeys in the spring woods.
Seeing the Forest for the Carbon
Coming Soon: The business of carbon credit holds promise for conserving smaller woodland tracts.
Dog Days Afield
Those who train and field trial dogs are indeed a special breed.
4th Annual Old Dominion One Shot
January – February 2018 Issue
Cover: Preacher after a day of goose hunting. Photo by Ed Felker
Behind the Scenes: The Story of the January-February 2018 Cover
When Preacher jumped onto the truck fender and looked at the camera, Ed Felker knew he had his favorite image.
Bad Behavior or Just Birds Being Birds?
This story reminds us that birds can be brilliant, and ruthless, in their will to survive.
DIY for Better Wildlife Habitat
With a handful of minor changes, you can welcome more wildlife to your property.
A Globally Rare Virginia Jewel
Nestled amid the hubbub of Northern Virginia, a unique natural community beckons.
Paved New World: The Unexpected Biology of Urban Animals
As humans encroach upon their world, wild animals employ a number of strategies to adapt to our urban footprint.
A Slippery Slope
Virginia's Wildlife Action Plan calls attention to our most vulnerable species, including elusive salamanders.
Virginia Treasures
Governor McAuliffe's statewide initiative recognizes and protects land of exceptional conservation value.
Digital Archive at the Library of Virginia
Scanned copies of Virginia Wildlife Magazine from the early years, archived at the Library of Virginia.