July 23, 2026

How to recognize when a juvenile raccoon needs help

As raccoon rehabilitation specialists, RWS treats dozens of orphaned kits per year. Learn how to recognize signs of genuine distress for young kits. 

July 30, 2026

Tickets to our Sanctuary Soirée are now on sale!

Grab your early bird priced tickets to Mountain View Magic! We share some of the success stories your support makes possible. 

August 6, 2026

It's opossum o'clock...again!

Virginia opossums are experiencing their second breeding cycle this time of year. Learn about how we care for orphaned opossums at RWS and how you can help.

August 13, 2026

Announcing details for our upcoming Sanctuary Soirée!

We spoke with NBC29 about Mountain View Magic on October 2nd and shared the spellbinding details! Early Bird ticket pricing won't last – grab your tickets today. 

May 20, 2026

How to help box turtles this spring and summer

RWS education ambassador Athar and executive director Sarah caught up with CBS19 anchor Cassidie Stevens and the crew. 

May 24, 2026

Rain could bring more wildlife activity to roadways

We spoke with NBC29 about how rain impacts different wildlife species and how viewers can help animals during wet weather.

May 14, 2026

Caring for orphaned waterfowl patients this spring

We spoke with NBC29 about the big year we're having for waterfowl patient admissions and the unique challenges of caring for these babies at RWS.

May 28, 2026

Meet May's crowned Patient of the Month

After a close public vote, we're happy to share the results of our Patient of the Month contest for May!

June 4, 2026

RWS treats a record number of baby hawks this spring

We spoke to NBC29 about the 8 Red-Shouldered Hawk orphans currently in rehabilitative care at RWS. 

June 11, 2026

With summer storms ahead, watch out for turtles!

Education ambassador Athar joined NBC29 in studio to share how viewers can help turtles safely cross the road this season.

June 18, 2026

Announcing June's Patient of the Month at RWS

We told NBC29's Steve Rappaport all about this month's featured wildlife rehab patients at RWS: three adorable Wild Turkey poults.

June 25, 2026

How RWS rehabs red foxes recovering from mange

We spoke with NBC29 about how we care for red fox patients with mange and what viewers can do to help animals.

July 2, 2026

RWS admits Virginia Opossums with MBD

We share the story of a group of opossum patients who arrived with Metabolic Bone Disease due to improper, illegal care from the public. 

July 9, 2026

How to avoid being a "fledgenapper" this summer

We talk about "fledgenapping" with NBC29 and how you can determine if and when a fledgling bird truly needs help.

July 16, 2026

Announcing July's Patient of the Month at RWS

We spoke with NBC29 anchor Steve Rappaport about the adorable Ruby-throated Hummingbird baby currently in care at RWS.

July 19, 2026

Deer overpopulation: How to keep them out of your yard

We shared some tips with NBC29 about how to safely and humanely reduce deer presence in your yard – and why we have so many deer in the first place.

January 23, 2026

Virginia wildlife rehabilitation organizations prepare for storm

NBC29 covered the preparations necessary for professional wildlife rehabilitation organizations to endure severe winter storms.

January 28, 2026

Winter weather an important time to follow birding precautions

We spoke to NBC29 about how bird enthusiasts can safely welcome birds to their feeders during winter weather.

January 22, 2026

What winter storms mean for the Sanctuary

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29 about how the Sanctuary cares for wildlife in adverse winter weather.

February 5, 2026

Bird feeder best practices for all seasons

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29 about some easy tips to feed birds safely and ethically throughout the year. 

February 12, 2026

RWS holding Valentine’s ‘lovebirds and bugs’ fundraiser

This Valentine’s Day, you have the chance to feed that not-so-special someone to the opossums.

February 12, 2026

RWS preparing for upcoming wildlife baby season

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29 about how viewers can support RWS with many patients incoming soon.

February 13, 2026

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary holds Lovebirds and Bugs fundraiser

 This Valentine's Day, people can spread the love ... or maybe they feel like getting revenge.

February 18, 2026

Winter weather could impact wildlife into the spring

Central Virginia is finally thawing out after the snowcrete, but the ice could have impacts on animals lasting into the spring.

February 19, 2026

Wildlife mating season is here

Learn how you can support wildlife this month as more animals are on the move in search of mates. 

February 26, 2026

Saying goodbye to the Year of the Snake

RWS ambassador Teeny Nagini gifted the team a beautiful skin shed this week. Happy Lunar New Year!

March 5, 2026

Wildlife formula during baby season is a critical resource

RWS is already plowing through buckets of formula. Learn about this important nutrition resource and the animals that drink it. 

March 19, 2026

RWS and rescuers re-nest a litter of 5 newborn fox kits

The Sanctuary's wildlife hotline helped a very happy reunion take place this baby season.

March 26, 2026

Baby season is off to a wild start at RWS!

We share updates on baby season at RWS and announce a fundraiser with our friends at Tribute Coffee.

March 31, 2026

Tribute Coffee hosts fundraiser for RWS

We were honored to be selected as the nonprofit beneficiary of Tribute Coffee's first Tribute Tuesday! Learn about this exciting fundraiser covered by CBS19. 

April 2, 2026

The ins and outs of wildlife formula 

Formula is not a one-size-fits-all part of wildlife rehab. We shared all about this critical part of mammal patient nutrition.

April 9, 2026

It's officially opossum o'clock at RWS!

We spoke with NBC29 about how we admit and treat orphaned opossum patients at the Sanctuary – and how viewers can help opossums.

October 14, 2025

Community Corner interview with 106.1 The Corner

We sat down with 106.1's Samantha Federico to chat about wildlife rehab and our upcoming fundraiser, the Sanctuary Soirée. 

October 23, 2025

Patient of the Month: Eastern Screech-Owls

We spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about two charming Eastern Screech-Owl patients we have cared for this season at RWS.

October 30, 2025

Celebrating Bat Week!

November 4, 2025

Wildlife behavior is changing with the seasons 

Learn about what you can expect from our wild neighbors and fall turns into winter. 

November 5, 2205

Introducing our new Yellow-bellied Slider ambassador

We caught up with Cassidie Stevens and the gang from CBS19 to introduce our new turtle ambassador and talk about his naming contest. 

November 6, 2025

Sanctuary Soirée auction opens for bidding

We share all about our Sanctuary Soirée and the online auction we've kicked off. Check out all of our incredible offerings and bid now! 

We spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about what Bat Week is and why celebrating bats matters. 

November 13, 2025

Looking ahead at our Sanctuary Soirée 

RWS Board Member Adam Miller spoke with the NBC29 crew about what guests could expect at our Sanctuary Soirée on Nov. 14. 

November 20, 2025

Recapping our marvelous Sanctuary Soirée

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with Steve Rappaport all about the Sanctuary's smashing fundraiser!

December 4, 2025

Highlighting our Patient of the Month

We  spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport and discussed our adorable Meadow Vole patient, including his release. 

December 8, 2025

How you can support the Sanctuary this season

We chatted with NBC29's Erin Brown about the important work RWS does for our community and how folks can support our work. 

November 13, 2025

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary fundraising to repair driveway

CBS19 covered our exciting road repair fundraiser. With our community's help, we met our goal! 

December 18, 2025

Hibernation, torpor, and critter crafts!

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with Steve Rappaport all about winter adaptations and a fun upcoming event.

January 7, 2026

Looking back on 2025 and ahead at 2026

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with Steve Rappaport all the Sanctuary's accomplishments in 2025 and goals for 2026.

January 15, 2026

January 2026's Patient of the Month at RWS

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with Steve Rappaport about our charming featured patient this month.

July 31, 2025

Community Conversations:
Bat Rehabilitation & Conservation

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about native bat rehabilitation and how you can support bat populations at home.

July 24, 2025

Community Conversations: Chimney Swift season is here

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about Chimney Swift care and conservation.

July 17, 2025

Community Conversations: Snake Week with Ambassador Autumn

Autumn the Corn Snake joins the NBC29 team n the studio to discuss snake coexistence and conservation in celebration of Snake Week.

July 10, 2025

Community Conversations: Wildlife & Extreme Heat

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about supporting backyard wildlife through heat wave events. 

August 7, 2025

It's the Season of Wildlife Releases at RWS!

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about some recent wildlife releases at the Sanctuary and our release protocols.

August 14, 2025

A record year for skunk admissions at RWS

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about what it's been like rehabbing over 30 skunks this season at RWS.

August 21, 2025

Red-headed Woodpeckers rescued after struck by lightning

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about a particularly shocking wildlife rescue case this season, and their successful release!

September 11, 2025

Celebrating International Vulture Awareness Day

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about the importance of vultures worldwide and here in Virginia.

September 25, 2025

Peak fall migration is here in Central Virginia

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about bird migration this fall and how viewers can support our avian neighbors.

October 2, 2025

Sanctuary Soirée tickets are now on sale 

We spoke with NBC29 about our upcoming Sanctuary Soirée Fundraiser, including exciting early bird ticket pricing. You can buy tickets here.

October 9, 2025

Cedar Waxwings in our community

We spoke with NBC29's Jenette Hastings about the marvelous Cedar Waxwing and how these unique birds require unique care at RWS.

October 10, 2025

Millions of birds are flying through the region every night

CBS19 's McKenna Schonbrun covers peak fall migration at RWS and how viewers can help migratory birds from home. 

July 9, 2025

Abandoned or injured animals find care at Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary

Summertime gives more people the chance to get outdoors and makes encounters with animals out in nature more common. 

July 3, 2025

Community Conversations: Volunteering On-Site at RWS

RWS volunteer and Rivanna Master Naturalist David Volin spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about his ongoing volunteerism at RWS.

June 27, 2025

106.1 The Corner radio interview

Our executive director spoke with The Corner's Samantha Federico about wildlife baby season, the Sanctuary's ambassadors, and tips for helping wildlife through extreme heat.

June 26, 2025

Community Conversations: Board Members & Volunteering at RWS

RWS board member Adam Miller spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about volunteering behind the scenes at the Sanctuary.

June 12, 2025

Community Conversations: Ratsnake Patient of the Month

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Kate Nuechterlein about a recent patient rescue story that stuck with us!

June 5, 2025

Community Conversations: Snapping Turtles

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Steve Rappaport about snapping turtle myths, facts, and tips. 

May 12, 2025

Community Conversations: Baby Season

Executive director Sarah Cooperman spoke with NBC29's Erin Brown about the Sanctuary's busy season and upcoming renovation projects.

April 17, 2025

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary expects record amount of patients this baby season

We spoke with WVIR NBC29 about the start of wildlife baby season and what folks can do to help a baby animal in need.

March 28, 2025

Hummingbird migration is here! 

We spoke with the WVIR NBC29 team about attracting hummingbirds to your yard safely this migration season. 

March 19, 2025

Wildlife Wednesday: Opossum Mating Season 

We spoke with the  CBS19 team about opossum mating season tips and tricks alongside Leonard, one of our education ambassador opossums.

February 10, 2025

Education ambassador Fiona makes her debut! 

We caught up with CBS19's Cassidie Stevens to introduce Fiona, our new education ambassador opossum. 

November 20, 2024

Wildlife sanctuary takes in 1,000 patients this year so far

The very big milestone came in the form of a very small package. Two orphaned white-footed mice were rescued from Charlottesville and transported to Rockfish for care.

November 8, 2024

In the Rockfish Valley, an Animal Sanctuary Celebrates 20 Years

Nature can be brutal, but a good many of the serious injuries Sarah Cooperman sees in her patients at the Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary are caused by humans...

June 30, 2024

Tattoo fundraiser supports Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary

People were at Moose’s by the Creek the weekend of June 30 getting some new ink and it was all for charity.

February 9, 2024

‘Hugs N’ Bugs:’ Name a worm after an ex at Nelson County animal sanctuary

If you are not feeling the love this Valentine’s Day, one wildlife sanctuary in Nelson County has an idea.

February 8, 2024

Wildlife sanctuary raising funds by letting you name bug after an ex

 The Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary in Nelson County is adding a fun or revengeful twist to Valentine’s Day.

October 4, 2023

Climate change brings a growing challenge for wildlife sanctuary

Executive Director Sarah Cooperman spoke with Sandy Hausman (Virginia Public Radio) about the impacts of climate change on RWS's work. 

May 24, 2023

Down the foxhole

"The Big Picture" feature in C-Ville Weekly, written about a fox rehab success story at RWS.

May 7, 2023

Selvedge Brewing hosts baby shower for Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary

Our "wildlife baby shower" at Selvedge Brewing helped RWS collect much-needed items for our wildlife baby season.

April 1, 2023

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary renests two Great Horned Owlets

The Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary and the Virginia Department of Forestry recently helped to renest two baby Great Horned owls.

March 29, 2023

'Green Future of Nelson' expo highlights conservation, natural resources

RWS was a featured participant at an expo celebrating Nelson County's conservation-oriented businesses and groups. 

January 11, 2023

There's A Little-Known Wildlife Sanctuary In Virginia And It's Magical

This animal sanctuary in Virginia is one where all ages can learn about the importance of protecting Virginia’s native species.

April 7, 2022

Nelson County women committed to protecting animals

The "Founding Mothers" helping Nelson County's domestic and wild animals.

December 24, 2021

Baby squirrels at wildlife sanctuary show signs of climate change

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary has received its latest ever baby wildlife admission. It's a sign that animals are picking up on climate change.

November 14, 2019

North Branch welcomes wildlife in just long enough to learn

North Branch School welcomed a few guests Thursday, including a sleepy opossum, a slithery snake, and a friendly turtle.

July 24, 2019

Teach a Reporter: Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary

Reporter Erin Conway joins staff member Sarah Cooperman at the Sanctuary for a "day in the life" as a wildlife rehabilitator.

June 7, 2019

Fantastic Mr. Fox, at Home in Crozet

Living alongside foxes and red fox kits, with input from the Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary team.