Site icon West Virginia Division of Natural Resources

Tips for Observing West Virginia Wildlife

Observing wildlife in their habitat is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors and learn about West Virginia’s abundant natural resources. And the good thing about West Virginia is that you don’t have to go far to see wildlife. So, if you want to teach your kids about wildlife or get in touch with nature, plan a wildlife observing adventure. Here aresome basics to keep in mind.

Where can I safely observe wildlife?

Whether you look for wildlife in the woods or watch birds and other critters in your backyard, there are plenty of places you can see the state’s abundant wildlife in action:

What do I need to observe wildlife?

Observing wildlife is easy, accessible and doesn’t require a lot of special equipment or expertise. To get started, all you need is a watchful eye. But if you want to make the most of your experience, here are a few things we would put in our wildlife observing backpack:

What you wear is also important. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t have any bold patterns or bright colors that could scare wildlife. Watch the forecast and dress in layers to keep you warm and dry in the event of rain or chilly weather. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen will protect you from the sun and a good pair of walking shoes, high-quality socks and a walking stick or hiking poles are all worthy investments.

What time of year is best for observing wildlife?

West Virginia has four distinct seasons and while some animals are more active than others at certain times of the year, there is always wildlife to be seen. Most wildlife species are most active early in the morning or at dusk. Many other animals are nocturnal, so do some research and learn about behavior patterns for the wildlife species you want to see. You’ll also improve viewing success by knowing a wildlife’s preferred habitat.

One other important thing to remember is to be aware of any hunting season that may be open and to dress accordingly. That means wearing at least 400 square inches of blaze orange during the buck firearms season in the fall.

What safety tips should I remember when observing wildlife?

Protect West Virginia’s Wildlife

As you observe wildlife in West Virginia, make sure you to practice the below guidelines.

  1. Plan ahead and prepare
  2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
  3. Dispose of waste properly
  4. Leave what you find
  5. Minimize campfire impacts
  6. Respect wildlife
  7. Be considerate of other visitors

Featured Articles

Five ways you can help protect wild woodland box turtles

When was the last time you saw a box turtle in the wild? Did you, like so many of us, enjoy watching its slow, steady plod through the grass? Were you treated to the sight of a turtle stretching its…

What you can do to help West Virginia’s official butterfly

The next time you notice a monarch butterfly, with its brilliant orange and black wings rimmed with white dots, take a good long appreciative look. Monarchs used to number in the billions. Since 1976, the world population of monarch butterflies…

New West Virginia Wildlife Center biologist ready for busy summer

The West Virginia State Wildlife Center has a new resident biologist and while he’s only been on the job for a few months he already has some advice for people planning a visit in the coming months.

WVDNR partners with Toyota to promote pollinator conservation

Private landowners in the Kanawha Valley had a hands-on opportunity to learn how to create a pollinator habitat on their property through a recent workshop hosted by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia, Inc. 

WVDNR studying deer population around state

Thanks to a new West Virginia Division of Natural Resources study, hunters, conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts will soon know more about the state’s white-tailed deer population, their survival raises, behavior and movement patterns.

New law prohibiting possession of most native reptiles, amphibians now in effect

New regulations making it unlawful to take or possess most native reptiles and amphibians for any reason are now in effect in West Virginia.

Tips to Help You Identify West Virginia Wildlife

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or an angler or hunter, knowing how to spot animals in the wild is a valuable skill and enjoyable activity. With more than 80 species of amphibians and reptiles, 70 species of mammals, 178 species…

Tips That Will Help You Landscape for Wildlife

Whether you live on a farm, a quarter-acre suburban lot or in a city apartment, you can provide habitat for wildlife. In fact, all you need to create wildlife habitat is food, water, shelter and space. This task can be…

The do’s and don’ts of feeding wildlife

One of the best ways to protect West Virginia’s abundant wildlife is keeping it wild. That means we all need to respect habitats, keep a safe distance from wildlife and resist the urge to feed wild animals. As you enjoy…

Tips for Observing West Virginia Wildlife

Observing wildlife in their habitat is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors and learn about West Virginia’s abundant natural resources. And the good thing about West Virginia is that you don’t have to go far to see…

Snakes Alive!

Snakes are one of the most misunderstood animals in West Virginia. Did you know these colorful and fascinating reptiles play an important role in healthy ecosystems? If not for snakes, our forests and your yard would probably be overrun with…

Birds in West Virginia

West Virginia is a great state to live and visit, if you love watching birds and tracking them as they come and go each spring. With its mountains, valleys and everything in between, West Virginia provides many different habitats for…

Exit mobile version