WAYNESBORO, VA (Wildlife Center of Virginia) — The Wildlife Center of Virginia has a new face on its animal ambassador team—Lucy the Virginia Opossum!

Lucy was admitted to the Center as a young opossum in July 2025 after she was found injured outside a church in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Upon examination, the Center’s veterinary team discovered multiple puncture wounds and fractures on the right side of her face, likely the result of a predator attack. While most of her injuries healed, her right eye suffered irreversible damage and had to be surgically removed.

With only one eye, Lucy could no longer safely survive in the wild and was deemed non-releasable. She began her training as an education ambassador thereafter and officially joined the ambassador team in August 2025.

Lucy the opossum eating. Photo source: Wildlife Center of Virginia

Lucy’s name was chosen through an auction held during the Center’s Annual Gala. The winning bidder selected “Lucy” in memory of their grandmother.

“Lucy has already made so much progress, and even did her first practice program this week,” said Connor, the Center’s Director of Outreach. “We can’t wait to get her involved in outreach programs!”

Soon, Lucy will join outreach staff for programs at schools, libraries, and community events. As part of the outreach team, she will help teach the public about opossums, wildlife rehabilitation, and how to co-exist with wild animals.

Want to help support Lucy’s care? You can! Lucy is now available to sponsor through the Center’s Caring for Critters program. These sponsorships are an excellent way to welcome Lucy to the team. As part of your sponsorship, you’ll receive:

  • A sponsorship packet with a photo of Lucy
  • An official certificate of adoption
  • Exclusive email updates about Lucy

To sponsor Lucy, visit the Center’s Caring for Critters page.