WAYNESBORO, VA (Rocktown Now) — On March 9, the Center admitted the first Black Bear cub of 2026—a young female that was found alone, muddy, and shivering at a residence in Bedford County. The finder watched the cub for six hours but did not see any signs of the mother. Department of Wildlife Resources staff responded, determined that the cub was likely orphaned, and transported her to the Center for care.
On admission, the cub—estimated to be about six weeks old —was quiet, but alert and responsive. After giving her a brief period of rest, the veterinary team anesthetized the cub to perform a full exam and diagnostic workup.
Veterinary staff found that the cub was mildly dehydrated but otherwise in good body condition, with no apparent injuries. Radiographs were within normal limits, and bloodwork was largely normal, though it did reveal low blood glucose—indicating she had not eaten for some time…