The Rockingham Bird Club (RBC) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and we’re collecting the best bird memories from community members. We invite you to share a few sentences describing your most memorable bird encounter or observation, including what, when, where, and why it was special. To be included, the memory must be from…
As of 2023, avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, remains a significant concern for bird populations worldwide. Outbreaks of highly pathogenic strains, particularly H5N1 and H5N8, have been reported across various regions, leading to alarming mortality rates among both wild and domestic birds. Recent Outbreaks and Impact Recent surveillance efforts have documented several…
Leslie Sturges, a Master Naturalist and the founder and president of the Mount Solon-based nonprofit organization Bat Conservation & Rescue of Virginia, is dedicated to educating the public about the crucial role bats play in the ecosystem. The group aims to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding bats, emphasizing their importance in pest control and agriculture.…
We are excited to share important updates regarding our leadership team for the upcoming term. Please find the new appointments and transitions below: President: Outgoing: Peggy Plass Incoming: Eunice Sill Vice President: Outgoing: Eunice Sill Incoming: Scott Jost Training Coordinator: Lincoln Gray Treasurer: Carl Droms Volunteer Service Projects Committee Chair: Judy Bartlett Continuing Education Committee…
We decided the 2024 VMN recertification pin would be a moth, and we invited VMN volunteers to submit their artwork of any moth species native to Virginia. Why a moth? We chose this group of organisms because moths are underappreciated, yet they are beautiful and very important parts of the food web. This winning artwork…
Virginia Master Naturalists Headwaters Chapter 