As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, marking the beginning of 2025, the great outdoors of Virginia is already bustling with life. From the majestic mountains to the coastal wetlands, the state is home to a diverse range of wildlife that can be observed throughout the year. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just starting to explore the natural world, Virginia has something to offer every month of the year. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the 12 months of Virginia wildlife to watch in 2025.
January: Wintering Waterfowl
As the winter months set in, Virginia's wetlands and waterways become a haven for waterfowl. January is an excellent time to spot species such as American Coots, Pied-billed Grebes, and Hooded Mergansers. The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are particularly good places to look for these birds.
Best Places to Visit:
Chesapeake Bay Virginia Beach Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
February: Bald Eagles
February is a great time to spot Bald Eagles in Virginia, particularly around the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. These majestic birds of prey can be seen soaring overhead or perched in trees, scanning the water for fish.
Best Places to Visit:
Chesapeake Bay Potomac River Rappahannock River
March: Spring Migration
As the weather begins to warm up in March, Virginia's skies come alive with the sounds of migrating birds. Species such as Red-winged Blackbirds, American Robins, and Ospreys can be seen making their way back to their breeding grounds.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia Beach
April: Baby Animals
April is a great time to spot baby animals in Virginia, from fawns to ducklings. The state's many parks and wildlife refuges offer excellent opportunities to observe these adorable creatures up close.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park George Washington National Forest Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
May: Butterflies and Dragonflies
As the weather warms up in May, Virginia's meadows and wetlands come alive with the colors of butterflies and dragonflies. Species such as the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and the Common Green Darner can be seen flitting about, adding a touch of magic to the natural world.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park Virginia Beach First Landing State Park
June: Summer Solstice
The summer solstice in June marks the beginning of the longest day of the year, and Virginia's wildlife is in full swing. From the songs of the Wood Thrush to the antics of the Black Bears, there's no shortage of exciting wildlife to observe.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park George Washington National Forest Virginia Beach
July: Fireflies and Crickets
The warm summer evenings of July are perfect for observing the flashing lights of fireflies and the chirping sounds of crickets. These nocturnal insects can be seen in Virginia's meadows and backyards, adding a touch of magic to the summer nights.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park Virginia Beach First Landing State Park
August: Shorebirds
As the summer months come to a close, Virginia's beaches and coastal areas become a haven for shorebirds. Species such as the Sanderling, the Semipalmated Plover, and the Killdeer can be seen migrating through the state.
Best Places to Visit:
Virginia Beach Assateague Island National Seashore Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
September: Fall Migration
As the weather begins to cool down in September, Virginia's skies come alive with the sounds of migrating birds. Species such as the Broad-winged Hawk, the American Golden-Plover, and the Ruby-throated Hummingbird can be seen making their way to their wintering grounds.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia Beach
October: Fall Foliage
The fall foliage in October is a sight to behold in Virginia, with the changing colors of the leaves creating a picturesque backdrop for wildlife viewing. Species such as the White-tailed Deer, the Wild Turkey, and the Black Bear can be seen roaming through the state's forests and woodlands.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park George Washington National Forest Virginia Beach
November: Waterfowl
As the weather cools down in November, Virginia's wetlands and waterways become a haven for waterfowl. Species such as the Mallard, the Wood Duck, and the American Coot can be seen migrating through the state.
Best Places to Visit:
Chesapeake Bay Virginia Beach Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
December: Winter Birds
As the winter months set in, Virginia's skies come alive with the sounds of winter birds. Species such as the Dark-eyed Junco, the American Tree Sparrow, and the Northern Cardinal can be seen visiting backyard bird feeders and foraging for food in the state's forests and woodlands.
Best Places to Visit:
Shenandoah National Park George Washington National Forest Virginia Beach
As we come to the end of our journey through the 12 months of Virginia wildlife to watch in 2025, we hope that you've been inspired to get outdoors and explore the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just starting to discover the wonders of the great outdoors, Virginia has something to offer every month of the year. So why not grab your binoculars, head outside, and see what wonders the state has in store for you?
What is the best time to see wildlife in Virginia?
+The best time to see wildlife in Virginia depends on the species you're interested in observing. However, the spring and fall migrations are excellent times to see a variety of birds and other wildlife.
What are some of the most common wildlife species in Virginia?
+Some of the most common wildlife species in Virginia include White-tailed Deer, Wild Turkeys, Black Bears, and a variety of bird species such as American Robins, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Bald Eagles.
What are some tips for wildlife watching in Virginia?
+Some tips for wildlife watching in Virginia include being patient and quiet, using binoculars to get a closer look, and respecting the animals' habitats and space. It's also a good idea to check with local park rangers or wildlife experts for information on the best times and places to see specific species.
Gallery of 12 Months Of Virginia Wildlife To Watch In 2025
