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Wildlife Cams

DWR’s live-streaming camera program offers a glimpse into the wonderful world of Virginia’s wildlife, no matter where you’re located! Take a peek at the aquatic life below the surface of the James River or watch peregrine falcons hatch atop a Richmond skyscraper. From restored elk habitat in the mountains to the tidal marshes of the coast, we have a camera that is sure to keep you captivated!

Falcon Cam

Falcon Cam is off for the year. The stream will resume in March of 2025!

The Falcon Cam follows the breeding season of 95/AK and 59/BM, a peregrine falcon pair that nest in downtown Richmond atop the Riverfront Plaza building. The Richmond Falcon Cam has for years documented peregrine courtship rituals, territorial disputes, egg laying, hatching, and chick development. Along the way it’s become a popular resource for not only avid wildlife watchers but also teachers and the general public.

Elk Cam

Elk Cam is live!

The Elk Cam follows Virginia’s majestic elk herd during their breeding season, also known as the “rut.” Located in Southwest Virginia’s Buchanan County, the camera is focused on a field frequented by the elk. Tune in throughout the fall to observe their fascinating behaviors, such as the formation of large family groups called “harems,” males challenging one another, and for the chance to hear a male elk’s bugle or a cow mewing to her calf.

Marsh Cam

Marsh Cam is currently live!

Located on Hog Island Wildlife Management Area in Surry County, the Marsh Cam is centered between a tidal marsh and two managed impoundments. The stream runs 24/7 every day of the year, which means that night or day, no matter the season, there is always something to see and hear! The Marsh Cam can also be signed out and remotely controlled by classrooms across Virginia as they learn about wetland ecosystems.

Shad Cam

Shad Cam is off for the year. The stream will resume in March of 2025!

A live-streaming camera focused on the fishway at Bosher’s Dam provides visitors with a peek into an incredible journey of migratory fishes as they return to the 137 miles of the James River and 168 miles of its major tributaries to spawn in the spring. Shad Cam is live from March until September, and to date over 25 species including American shad, gizzard shad, quillback, and sea lampreys have been observed on camera.