News Summary
Julie Wobig, a dedicated bird rescuer in Williamsburg, Virginia, has been rehabilitating songbirds and eagles for the past seven years. Filling a gap in avian care in eastern Virginia, her efforts come amid a shortage of trained professionals. Managing up to 60 birds during peak season, she collaborates with other rehabilitators and emphasizes the importance of proper care and release procedures. Despite facing challenges due to limited capacity, Wobig’s work reflects her passion for wildlife welfare and her commitment to ensuring the survival of these birds.
Williamsburg, Virginia – Julie Wobig is a passionate bird rescuer and rehabilitator who has been dedicated to the welfare of songbirds and eagles for the past seven years. With a unique commitment to wildlife care, Wobig has stepped in to fill a critical gap in bird rehabilitation in eastern Virginia, where a shortage of trained professionals has become evident.
As the only rehabilitator on the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel side who focuses on songbirds, Wobig’s work is vital to the region’s avian population. She has taken on this role partly because many former rehabilitators have retired without training successors. Wobig identified a looming crisis in bird care and felt compelled to act, helping to ensure that these creatures receive necessary assistance.
Wobig’s responsibilities are extensive. During the intensive baby bird season, which can begin as early as late February and last through the summer, she currently cares for approximately 60 birds, excluding raptors and geese. Daily activities include feeding baby birds, requiring about 20 to 30 minutes per feeding, alongside her regular job. Wobig is not alone in her efforts; she collaborates with other Category IV rehabilitators, who are allowed to provide direct care to wildlife without ongoing supervision, assisting her with feedings and care.
To initiate her rescue efforts, Wobig carefully assesses each situation. She starts the call process by requesting photos or videos of found birds to accurately determine the species and age of the animal needing help. This precaution is essential to provide the right care. A concept she emphasizes is “Active Watching,” which involves observing the bird to see if its parents may return, allowing them a chance to be reunited.
The release of rehabilitated birds back into the wild is one of the most rewarding aspects of Wobig’s work. This process can take at least six weeks from the time the bird is found until it is ready for freedom. The survival of each bird reflects her dedication and the extensive care and attention she provides.
Despite her passionate commitment, Wobig faces challenges due to limited capacity. She often has to transfer birds to other rehabilitators when her resources are maxed out. This systematic approach helps ensure that each bird receives optimal care while adhering to the legal and ethical standards required in wildlife rehabilitation.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) plays a crucial role in supporting wildlife rehabilitators by providing online resources that guide individuals on caring for injured and orphaned birds. This includes aiding people in obtaining the necessary rehabilitation permits to ensure that assistance is offered legally and with proper training.
More information on efforts related to wildlife care in the region can be found through various platforms, including social media channels dedicated to Eastern Virginia Wildlife Rescue. With advocates like Julie Wobig, the plight of songbirds and other wildlife continues to receive attention and care, making a significant impact on their welfare.
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Additional Resources
- WYD: Local Bird Rehabilitator Fills an Essential Need
- Rocktown: Wildlife Center of Virginia Rescues Great Blue Heron
- NY Post: Pigeon Turned Woman’s Strainer into a Nest
- Times Tribune: Pond Search for Missing Williamsburg Man Comes Up Empty
- NY Daily News: Hero Cops Rescue Two Distressed People
- Wikipedia: Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildlife
- Google Search: Wildlife Rehabilitation Virginia
- Google Scholar: Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Google News: Virginia Wildlife Rehabilitators
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
