N S W E
Wildlife Expeditions

Wildlife of
Vermont

Vermont's Green Mountains and northern hardwood forests form a wild corridor where moose, bears, and high-elevation birds thrive in a compact New England landscape.
175 Species
23,954 km² Land Area
Overview

About Vermont

Vermont's wildlife is shaped by long forested ridges, cold, clean waters, and a northern natural heritage links the Northeast to Canada. Northern hardwood and mixed conifer forests hold classic "North Woods" species like moose, black bear, bobcat, and many songbirds. Working lands—sugaring woods, hayfields, and hedgerows—give homes to raptors and grassland-edge animals. Key places include the Green Mountains’ rise from hardwood valleys to spruce-fir and alpine spots; river systems such as the Connecticut and Winooski; and wetland complexes of beaver meadows, marshes, and forested swamps. Lake Champlain and its bays provide waterfowl stopovers, spawning and nursery areas, and shoreline wetlands that link water and land food webs. Vermont is special because you can move quickly from low wetlands to high ridges in one forested state. Its north–south mountains and cross-border links act as a path for seasonal movements—spring migrations along rivers, summer nesting in forests, and winter use of high conifer stands.

Physical Features

Geography

Vermont's wildlife is shaped by the north-south Green Mountain spine and forested land. Elevation creates bands from lowland hardwoods and farm valleys to spruce-fir and small alpine areas on high peaks. Rivers, wetlands, Lake Champlain basin and Connecticut River valley are travel routes and gathering spots for waterfowl, amphibians, and wide-ranging mammals.

23,954 km² (land area) Land Area
45th largest U.S. state by area Size Rank
United States Country
State Type
Elevation Range

~29 m to 1,339 m (Lake Champlain lowlands to Mount Mansfield)

Coastline

No ocean coastline; extensive freshwater shoreline along Lake Champlain (plus smaller lake and river shorelines statewide).

Key Landscapes

Green Mountains (north-south mountain chain; high-elevation spruce-fir and limited alpine habitats) Taconic Mountains (western ridgeline with forested slopes and headwater streams) Champlain Valley (lowland mosaic of farms, forests, and wetlands; major movement corridor) Lake Champlain and associated bays, deltas, and wetlands (important for waterfowl, fish, and shoreline/wetland species) Connecticut River (major riparian corridor forming the eastern border; floodplains, oxbows, and riverine forests) Missisquoi River watershed and delta wetlands (notable wetland complex and migratory bird habitat) Headwater streams, beaver-influenced wetlands, and pond networks (amphibian breeding habitat and aquatic connectivity)
State Symbols

Official Wildlife Symbols

animal

Morgan horse

Designated 1961

bird

Hermit thrush

Designated 1941

fish

Brook trout

Designated 1975

insect

Monarch butterfly

Designated 1991

wildflower

Red clover

Designated 1895

tree

Sugar maple

Designated 1949

Parks & Reserves

Protected Areas

Vermont’s protected areas include federal lands (Green Mountain National Forest and NPS sites), state parks and forests, and private lands held by land trusts. They conserve forest wildlife corridors in the Green Mountains, alpine and subalpine habitats, and wetlands and floodplain forests near Lake Champlain and Connecticut River. Key wildlife: moose, black bear, bobcat, neotropical songbirds, raptors, beaver, otter, waterfowl.

Protected Coverage

≈20-25% of Vermont's land area is under some form of permanent protection or conservation (public lands plus conserved private lands/easements; estimate varies by definition).

National Parks & Preserves

Green Mountain National Forest

≈399,000 acres

Vermont's largest block of federally managed habitat, spanning large elevations and forest types (northern hardwoods to spruce-fir). Its extensive interior forest, coldwater streams, and connected ridgelines support wide-ranging mammals and forest-interior birds, with strong opportunities for wildlife tracking and birding.

Moose American black bear Bobcat American marten Ruffed grouse

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

≈555 acres

A nationally significant "working forest" landscape that demonstrates long-term forest stewardship. Mixed hardwood forests, hemlock stands, and riparian habitats support diverse woodland birds and mammals; it's a reliable spot for wildlife observation close to developed areas.

White-tailed deer Wild turkey Barred owl Pileated woodpecker Red fox

Appalachian National Scenic Trail (Vermont segment)

≈150 miles of trail across Vermont (corridor width varies)

A high-value ridgeline corridor crossing some of Vermont's most intact upland habitats, including high-elevation spruce-fir and montane hardwood forests. The trail corridor is notable for migratory bird concentrations, high-elevation specialists, and connectivity for large mammals.

Bicknell's thrush Black-throated blue warbler Moose American black bear Porcupine

State & Provincial Parks

Groton State Forest

≈26,000 acres

A large, lake-and-wetland-rich forest complex that's especially strong for amphibians, beaver wetlands, and boreal-leaning bird communities in the Northeast Kingdom region. The mix of ponds, spruce-fir patches, and northern hardwoods provides diverse viewing opportunities.

Common loon Beaver River otter Moose Bald eagle

Camel's Hump State Park / Camel's Hump State Forest (Camel's Hump area)

≈20,000+ acres (combined state holdings in the Camel's Hump area)

One of Vermont's premier high-elevation conservation areas, with rare alpine plant communities and extensive backcountry forest. It supports high-elevation breeding birds and acts as a major ecological node in the central Green Mountains.

Bicknell's thrush Blackpoll warbler American black bear Snowshoe hare Northern saw-whet owl

Mount Mansfield State Forest

≈7,000+ acres

Vermont's highest peak includes subalpine and near-alpine habitats that are scarce in the region. The elevational gradient and exposed ridgelines make it notable for high-elevation birds, raptors on migration, and cold-adapted forest wildlife.

Bicknell's thrush Peregrine falcon Black-throated green warbler American black bear Moose

Willoughby Lake State Park (and adjacent state lands around Lake Willoughby)

Small shoreline park with additional adjacent protected state lands (overall protected complex spans multiple parcels)

A dramatic glacial lake bounded by steep cliffs and deep forest-excellent for raptor viewing and for species associated with clear, cold lakes. The cliff-and-forest interface provides nesting habitat and strong wildlife-viewing scenery.

Peregrine falcon Common loon Bald eagle River otter Black bear

Wildlife Refuges

Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge

≈6,700 acres

A flagship wetland complex at the north end of Lake Champlain with extensive marsh, floodplain forest, and river delta habitats. It is one of Vermont's best places for waterfowl migration, wetland mammals, and breeding marsh birds.

Wood duck American bittern Bald eagle Muskrat River otter

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge - Nulhegan Basin Division (Vermont)

≈26,000 acres

A large, relatively remote block of northern forest and wetlands in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. It is particularly important for forest-interior wildlife, boreal-associated birds, and landscape-scale connectivity, with strong opportunities for quiet wildlife viewing.

Moose Black-backed woodpecker Canada lynx (rare/occasional) American marten Spruce grouse (rare/nearby suitable habitat)

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge - Connecticut River watershed units (Vermont parcels)

Multiple scattered parcels (sizes vary; collectively thousands of acres across the watershed, with Vermont units contributing a portion)

A network of protected floodplain forests, riparian corridors, and wetlands associated with the Connecticut River system. These parcels help maintain water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and migratory bird stopover sites across a working landscape.

Wood turtle Osprey Bald eagle Beaver Cerulean warbler (localized/regionally important)

Wilderness Areas

  • Breadloaf Wilderness (Green Mountain National Forest)
  • Lye Brook Wilderness (Green Mountain National Forest)
  • Joseph Battell Wilderness (Green Mountain National Forest)
  • Otter Creek Wilderness (Green Mountain National Forest)
  • Glastenbury Wilderness (Green Mountain National Forest)
Animals

Wildlife

Vermont's wildlife is shaped by the Green Mountains, large blocks of northern hardwood-conifer forest, coldwater streams, wetlands, and the Lake Champlain basin. The state sits at a biogeographic crossroads: boreal-affiliated species persist at higher elevations and in the Northeast Kingdom, while more southerly species are expanding northward along valleys and lowlands. The result is a "northern forest" wildlife experience-moose sign in spruce-fir, black bears in beech stands, loons on quiet lakes, and brook trout in shaded headwaters-plus strong seasonal bird migration along Lake Champlain and major river corridors.

~55-60 species Mammals
~250-290 species recorded (with ~140-170 regular breeders) Birds
~18-20 species Reptiles
~20-22 species Amphibians
~80-90 freshwater species (Lake Champlain and inland waters combined) Fish
Examples

Iconic Species

Moose
Moose A signature Green Mountain/Northeast Kingdom mammal; frequently sought along forest roads and wetlands, especially at dawn/dusk.
American Black Bear
American Black Bear Common in extensive forest blocks; known for fall foraging in beech and oak mast years and for being a quintessential northern-forest predator/omnivore.
Common Loon
Common Loon An emblem of Vermont's quiet lakes; breeding pairs and their calls define many summer lake experiences.
Bald Eagle
Bald Eagle Highly visible along Lake Champlain and major rivers; a conservation success story and a major winter birding draw when eagles congregate near open water.
Peregrine Falcon
Peregrine Falcon Nests on cliffs and some human structures; well-known viewing opportunities around major cliff faces and ledges.
North American Beaver A dominant wetland engineer across the state; beaver ponds create key habitat for waterfowl, amphibians, and fish.
Bobcat
Bobcat Elusive but widely distributed; a flagship carnivore for Vermont's working-forest landscape.
Brook Trout
Brook Trout The iconic coldwater fish of Vermont headwaters; central to the state's angling identity and a strong indicator of intact, cool stream habitat.
White-tailed Deer
White-tailed Deer Abundant in many lowland and valley habitats; strongly shapes predator-prey dynamics and winter yarding traditions in parts of the state.

Endemic & Rare Species

Bicknell's Thrush

Catharus bicknelli

Globally vulnerable/near-threatened in many assessments; rare high-elevation breeder

Breeds mainly in dense, stunted, wind-shaped high-elevation spruce-fir thickets near mountaintops; Vermont's high peaks provide regionally important habitat at the southern edge of major breeding areas.

Timber Rattlesnake

Crotalus horridus

State-endangered/very rare in Vermont

Persisting in only a few locations; a conservation focal species tied to warm rocky slopes and careful management of persecution and habitat disturbance.

Lake Sturgeon

Acipenser fulvescens

Rare/imperiled regionally; limited populations and recovery-dependent

A long-lived native fish associated with the Lake Champlain system; restoration and connectivity efforts make it a high-profile native species of concern.

Little Brown Bat

Myotis lucifugus

Severely declined due to white-nose syndrome; conservation concern

Once one of Vermont's most common bats; dramatic population losses have made remaining maternity roosts and hibernacula especially important.

Canada Lynx

Lynx canadensis

Federally threatened in the contiguous U.S.; mostly rare/episodic in Vermont

Occurs primarily as occasional dispersers from Canada/northern New England; underscores the value of forested corridors and boreal habitat connectivity.

American Marten

Martes americana

Rare/local in Vermont (boreal-associated); conservation concern in parts of its range

Most associated with higher-elevation conifer and mixed forests; an indicator of colder, structurally complex forest conditions.

Notable Populations

  • Lake Champlain and adjacent river corridors concentrate migratory waterfowl and raptors, creating one of Vermont's best multi-season birding areas.
  • Breeding Common Loons occur on multiple Vermont lakes, and loon conservation (nest protection, lead-tackle reduction messaging, shoreline stewardship) is a prominent statewide effort.
  • Peregrine Falcon nesting has re-established in the region, and Vermont cliff/ledge sites are among the better-known viewing opportunities in New England.
  • Native coldwater headwater networks support wild Brook Trout strongholds where stream temperatures and connectivity remain favorable.

Recent Changes

  • Bald Eagles have increased and become more routinely observed statewide following regional recovery and improved nesting success.
  • Peregrine Falcons have rebounded from historic declines; nesting now includes both natural cliffs and some human-made structures.
  • Moose numbers and/or calf recruitment have shown concern in parts of the state in recent years, linked in the region to heavy winter-tick infestations and warming-related stressors.
  • Little Brown Bats (and other cave-hibernating bats) have experienced major declines from white-nose syndrome, altering night-flying insect predator communities.
  • Some warm-adapted birds and ticks have expanded northward with milder conditions (e.g., increased presence of certain lowland/generalist species), while cold-adapted montane species face habitat compression at high elevations.
  • River and wetland restoration plus water-quality work in parts of the Lake Champlain basin continue to influence fish and aquatic wildlife recovery trajectories, though pressures from development, nutrients, and invasive species remain ongoing.
Visit

Wildlife Viewing

Vermont has varied wildlife for a small state: boreal to temperate forests in the Green Mountains, wetlands and floodplains along the Connecticut River, Lake Champlain shores, and high alpine zones. Expect strong birding (spring/fall), moose and beaver in the Northeast Kingdom, otters, waterfowl and raptors. Best watching at dawn/dusk along wetland edges, quiet back roads, and lake or river corridors.

Best Seasons

Spring (Apr-Jun)

Peak bird activity as migrants return and songbirds become vocal; waterfowl concentrate on wetlands and bays; amphibians breed in vernal pools (evening listening can be memorable); black bears become more active as food returns. Mud season can limit access on back roads-plan around maintained trails and paved routes.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Best for combining wildlife with canoe/kayak and lake cruises; loon and heron viewing improves on quiet ponds; beavers and river otters are active at dusk; butterflies and dragonflies peak in meadows and wetlands. Dense foliage can make mammal spotting harder-focus on wetlands, shorelines, and early/late hours.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Superb foliage plus active wildlife: raptors migrate along ridgelines, waterfowl stage on Lake Champlain and major wetlands, and mammals feed heavily ahead of winter. Clearer sightlines after leaf-drop improve chances for deer, moose, and beaver viewing. Cooler temps make long observation sessions more comfortable.

Winter (Dec-Mar)

Best season for tracking and learning: look for moose, fisher, otter, and bobcat tracks on snowshoe/ski outings; eagles and other raptors can be seen near open water; winter finches may visit feeders and conifer stands. Short days and cold require planning, but visibility in leafless forests is excellent.

Top Wildlife Experiences

  • Moose-spotting drive at dawn/dusk in the Northeast Kingdom (around Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge - Nulhegan Basin Division; also explore nearby bogs and beaver meadows from quiet pull-offs).
  • Paddle for beavers, otters, and waterbirds on Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area (Addison), one of Vermont's premier wetland complexes-arrive early for calmer water and higher activity.
  • Lake Champlain birding and shoreline wildlife day: scan bays and causeways for waterfowl and bald eagles, then add a sunset cruise or shoreline walk for muskrat/otter chances (especially in quieter coves).
  • High-elevation hike in Mount Mansfield State Forest or Camel's Hump State Park: look for Bicknell's thrush habitat (heard more often than seen), spruce-fir birds, and signs of alpine wildlife; go early and stay on durable trails in alpine zones.
  • Raptor and migration watch at accessible overlooks and open-country edges during September-October (farm valleys and ridge viewpoints can be excellent for hawks, kestrels, and passing songbird flocks).
  • Dawn chorus birding in the Connecticut River corridor (Silvio O. Conte Refuge units along the river): warblers, vireos, and flycatchers in spring; herons and waterfowl in late summer/fall.
  • Winter tracking and wildlife sign outing on a maintained trail network (state parks and national forest trailheads): learn to identify tracks, browse lines, and river-edge slides; pair with a stop at open-water areas for eagle viewing.

Wildlife Watching Types

Birding hotspots (wetlands, lake bays, river floodplains, spruce-fir high elevations) Moose watching (best in the Northeast Kingdom; dawn/dusk along wetland-rich backcountry roads) Beaver, river otter, and muskrat viewing (marshes, slow rivers, pond complexes; strongest at dusk) Raptor viewing (migration watches in fall; bald eagles near open water in winter) Wetland and amphibian viewing (vernal pools in spring; frogs and salamanders-listening can be as rewarding as spotting) Lake and river wildlife viewing (waterfowl, loons, herons; shoreline mammals) Winter tracking/snowshoe wildlife observation (tracks and sign of mammals and predators) Butterfly/dragonfly watching (summer meadows and wetland edges)

Guided Options

  • Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department programs: check for state-run education events, wildlife area programs, and seasonal viewing guidance (often tied to WMAs and conservation sites).
  • Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge (VT units): periodic refuge-led walks/interpretive programs may be available-especially useful for wetland birding and habitat-focused outings.
  • ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain (Burlington): natural history programming that pairs well with Lake Champlain wildlife viewing and learning about aquatic ecosystems.
  • Local Audubon and bird clubs (e.g., Vermont Audubon and regional birding groups): guided bird walks, migration outings, and community science events (ideal for visitors wanting hotspots and timing).
  • Guided paddling and naturalist tours on Lake Champlain and major wetlands (seasonal): look for operators offering "natural history" or "eco" paddles-best for loons, herons, beavers, and otters.
  • State Park nature programs (summer-focused): many parks host ranger-led walks and evening programs that can add structured wildlife viewing to a trip itinerary.
  • Licensed guide services in the Northeast Kingdom: consider hiring a local guide for ethical moose-viewing routes and safe, low-impact wildlife photography locations.
Habitats

Ecosystems

Vermont's land is mostly temperate northern hardwood and mixed conifer-hardwood forests shaped by the Green Mountains, cold winters, and many surface waters. Biodiversity varies with elevation—from Champlain Valley lowlands to high-elevation spruce-fir and alpine ridges—and in riparian and lake systems like the Connecticut River and Lake Champlain. Wetlands (marshes, swamps, peatlands) host waterfowl, amphibians, and rare plants.

Biomes

Temperate Forest

The dominant biome: northern hardwood and mixed forests (maple-beech-birch with hemlock, pine, and other associates) covering most low-to-mid elevations and many foothills.

Widespread statewide; majority of land area (roughly three-quarters).

Boreal Forest (Taiga)

High-elevation and colder-site spruce-fir forests (red spruce, balsam fir) and associated boreal understory conditions, especially on upper slopes and ridgelines of the Green Mountains and Northeast Kingdom.

Patchy; concentrated at higher elevations and colder northern areas (a modest but important fraction).

Alpine

True alpine tundra-like communities above treeline on the highest summits (e.g., Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump), with wind-exposed dwarf shrubs, sedges, and specialized plants.

Very limited; restricted to a few high peaks (tiny area, well under 1%).

Freshwater

Large lake (Lake Champlain), numerous smaller lakes/ponds, coldwater streams and rivers (notably the Connecticut River and many headwater systems) supporting aquatic food webs and migratory corridors.

Statewide network; substantial linear extent but small percent of land area.

Wetland

Forested and open wetlands in glacial depressions and floodplains, including peatlands (bogs/fens), marshes, and riparian wetlands critical for nutrient cycling and wildlife habitat.

Scattered statewide; locally extensive in valleys and lowlands (several percent of land area).

Habitats

Forest

Extensive working forests and conserved tracts; strong elevation-driven transitions from hardwoods to spruce-fir.

Deciduous Forest

Northern hardwood stands (sugar maple-beech-yellow birch) common across mid-elevations; key for foliage-driven productivity and wildlife.

Coniferous Forest

Spruce-fir at higher elevations; hemlock and pine in select valleys and slopes; provides winter cover and boreal-associated biodiversity.

Mountain

Green Mountains spine with steep slopes, cold headwaters, talus and ridgeline environments creating microhabitats and connectivity corridors.

Alpine Meadow

Summit-zone alpine communities on the highest peaks (notably Mansfield and Camel's Hump), highly sensitive to trampling and climate change.

Cliff/Rocky Outcrop

Bedrock cliffs and ledges (including in the Champlain Valley and mountain notches) with nesting habitat for raptors and specialized cliff flora.

Cave

Small caves and karst/solution features in limited carbonate bedrock areas; important roosting/hibernation sites where present (e.g., for bats).

Lake

Lake Champlain and many smaller lakes/ponds supporting fish communities, waterfowl, and shoreline wetlands.

River/Stream

Major rivers (Connecticut, Winooski, Lamoille, Missisquoi, Otter Creek) and many coldwater streams; key riparian corridors and floodplain dynamics.

Pond

Beaver ponds and kettle ponds create habitat mosaics for amphibians, waterfowl, and wetland plants.

Wetland

Mixed wetland complexes (forested and emergent) in valley bottoms and around lakes; critical for flood storage and biodiversity.

Swamp

Forested wetlands (red maple, cedar, spruce-fir swamps in places) common in lowlands and along slow-moving waters.

Marsh

Emergent marshes along Lake Champlain bays and floodplains; important for nesting birds and nutrient filtration.

Bog

Peatlands in glaciated basins (acidic bogs and richer fens in some settings) with specialized plants and carbon storage.

Agricultural/Farmland

Champlain Valley and other lowland farms (dairy, hay, corn) interspersed with hedgerows and riparian buffers that influence habitat connectivity.

Urban

Small urban centers (e.g., Burlington area) with fragmented habitats, waterfront interfaces, and managed green spaces.

Suburban

Low-density development around towns and lake/river corridors, creating edge habitats and pressures on wetlands and water quality.

Ecoregions

WWF: New England-Acadian Forests EPA Level III: Northeastern Highlands EPA Level III: Northeastern Coastal Zone (primarily Lake Champlain-influenced lowlands and adjacent areas within Vermont)
Protection

Conservation

Primary Threats

  • Although Vermont is mostly forested, its most productive areas—valley bottoms, floodplains, shorelines, and low-elevation forests—are being turned into houses, second homes, and businesses. This breaks wildlife corridors between the Green Mountains and nearby regions, isolates wetlands for turtles and amphibians, and shrinks riparian buffers needed for coldwater fish.
  • Warmer temperatures and shorter winters cut deep snow and shrink boreal/spruce-fir habitat, harming northern species like lynx and stressing alpine plants on Vermont's highest peaks. More heavy rains cause erosion into rivers and Lake Champlain; warmer streams hurt brook trout.
  • Phosphorus runoff from farms and towns causes harmful algae blooms and poor water quality in Lake Champlain and bays. Road salt raises chloride in streams and ponds, hurting frogs and aquatic insects. Local pollution from old industrial sites and contaminants can harm wetlands and make fish unsafe to eat.
  • Forest pests like emerald ash borer change riparian forests and floodplain areas. Invasive plants harm wetlands and shorelines. Aquatic invasives in Lake Champlain, such as zebra mussels, change food webs, hurt native mussels and fish habitat, and raise management costs.
  • White-nose syndrome has caused severe declines in hibernating bats across Vermont, reducing ecosystem services like insect control and complicating recovery for federally listed bat species. Vermont also maintains intensive surveillance to prevent establishment of chronic wasting disease in cervids, given proximity risks and the state's hunting and wildlife management context.
  • Road networks (including interstate and state highways crossing mountain passes and valley corridors) create collision mortality and barrier effects for wide-ranging species. Undersized or perched culverts and legacy stream crossings fragment aquatic habitat, block fish and mussel movement, and worsen flood impacts during extreme storms.
  • Historic dams, channelization, and altered floodplain connectivity affect sediment transport, fish passage, and habitat quality in river systems feeding Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River watershed. Shoreline hardening and altered wetland hydrology reduce nesting and foraging habitat for waterbirds and amphibians.
  • Agriculture-particularly dairy-dominated landscapes-can increase nutrient and sediment runoff when riparian buffers are insufficient or when fields are vulnerable to erosion during high-precipitation events. This directly links to Lake Champlain water-quality challenges and can degrade headwater streams important to coldwater species.
  • Growth around Burlington-Chittenden County and other service centers intensifies fragmentation of lowland forests and wetlands and increases stormwater runoff. Development pressure along lakeshores reduces natural shoreline vegetation and can disrupt loon nesting habitat and other sensitive nearshore species.
  • Most forestry in Vermont is compatible with conservation when well-managed, but poorly timed or overly intensive harvesting can reduce old-forest structure, simplify habitat, and increase erosion on steep slopes. Road building associated with timber operations can also introduce sediment to streams and spread invasive plants.
  • High recreational use (hiking, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, and lake recreation) can disturb sensitive alpine vegetation, ground-nesting birds, and loon nesting territories. Off-trail travel and shoreline activity can reduce breeding success in localized hotspots, especially on popular lakes and summits.
Fun Facts

Did You Know?

Sea lampreys in Lake Champlain aren't "invasive Great Lakes hitchhikers"-they're considered native to the Champlain basin, yet they're still intensively managed because their parasitic phase can severely suppress trout and salmon fisheries.

Vermont has a native venomous snake (timber rattlesnake), but it's extremely localized and protected; most Vermonters will never encounter one in the wild because the species persists in only a few small areas.

Moose can look nearly white in late winter not from genetics, but from "ghost moose" hair loss and fatigue caused by heavy infestations of winter ticks-an increasing problem linked to shorter, warmer winters that reduce tick die-off.

Bicknell's thrush-one of North America's rarest songbirds-doesn't breed in classic "pretty" forests; it prefers dense, stunted spruce-fir thickets near mountaintops, and Vermont's highest ridgelines are key breeding sites.

Beavers function like living wetland engineers in Vermont: a single dam can convert a cold stream corridor into a wet meadow-and-pond complex that boosts habitat for amphibians, waterfowl, and aquatic insects-often increasing overall biodiversity in that valley.

Lake Champlain-shared by Vermont and New York-is the largest freshwater lake in New England, and it supports one of the region's richest fish communities (around 90 species documented), including lake trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon.

Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) persist in Lake Champlain; it's widely cited as the only place in New England where this ancient, large-bodied freshwater fish still occurs as a wild population.

Vermont sits at the northern edge of the timber rattlesnake's range; its small Champlain Valley populations are among the northernmost timber rattlesnakes on Earth.

The alpine zone on Mount Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak) is the state's largest area of true alpine tundra-one of the rarest wildlife habitats in the eastern U.S.-and it concentrates high-elevation specialists like Bicknell's thrush.

The Nulhegan Basin Division in Vermont is the largest unit of the multi-state Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, protecting a major block of boreal-leaning habitat used by species like moose, black bear, and wide-ranging songbirds.

Vermont is a small state known for its rolling hills, dairy farms, and breathtaking rural scenery. The state’s population is about 626,000. Vermont has over 4 million acres of forest, which is more than 75% of the state. Another 15% of the state’s land is dairy farms. That accounts for the beautiful scenery, sparse population, and abundant wildlife.

Home to hundreds of bird species, it is also home to many migrating birds who stop on their way south. Its many forest mammals include foxes, bobcats, raccoons, muskrats, and black bears. Rodents, rabbits, and opossums are all native to the state. Frogs and toads are abundant, and you can hear them sing in the famous “spring chorus” that heralds the arrival of warmer weather.

The Official Animal of Vermont

The Morgan horse (Equus cabullus morganensis) was named the state’s official animal in 1961. This beautiful breed of horse is one of the earliest breeds developed in the U.S. In 1907, the U.S. Department of Agriculture established the U.S. Morgan Horse Farm in Middlebury, Vermont. It is now owned by the University of Vermont.

The Morgan horse is the state horse of Massachusetts and the state mammal of Rhode Island. Vermont poet Robert Frost wrote about “a little Morgan” in his poem The Runaway.

Where To Find the Top Wild Animals in Vermont

Wildlife is everywhere in Vermont, and you can see wild animals in every season and every part of the state. If you want to see moose, visit the bogs and wetlands areas in the autumn, which is the mating season for these huge ungulates. Victory Basin Wildlife Management Area and Conte National Wildlife Refuge are great places to see them.

One of the world’s largest goose migrations happens every fall as thousands of snow geese and Canada geese make their way 5,000 miles from the Arctic to the southern U.S. In Vermont, they stop at Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Besides geese, this is a great place to spot northern saw-whet owls, peregrine falcons, snowy owls, wild turkeys, and woodpeckers. You can also spot rodents, gray foxes, river otters, and southern bog lemmings. If you like reptiles and amphibians, you’ll see mudpuppies, garter snakes, eastern newts, common water snakes, and painted turtles.

Vermont’s ponds are home to common loons, whose call is famous for its haunting, musical quality. Loons almost became extinct in Vermont, but conservation efforts have helped their numbers grow. Any pond surrounded by wilderness is a good place to listen for loons, but wildlife experts recommend keeping a distance to avoid disturbing the birds.

Vermont holds a Christmas Bird Count between December and January to tally the number of bird species in the state. Birders of all levels take part in identifying the number of cardinals, grosbeaks, owls, ravens, and other birds in the state.

The Most Dangerous Animals in Vermont Today

Although Vermont has some fierce predators, most of them are harmless to humans.

  • Deer tick: This tiny bloodsucker transmits many diseases, including Lyme’s disease. Vermont’s wild woods are filled with them, so it’s important to wear protection and check yourself after a hike or walk in the woods.
  • Moose: Although most moose avoid humans, they can become if they feel threatened. Avoid disturbing a moose that is mating or protecting its young.

Endangered and Extinct Animals in Vermont

Vermont passed its own endangered species laws decades ago. Since then, it has seen recoveries of peregrine falcons, loons, and ospreys. There are still some endangered species on the state government’s list:

Wolves were once widespread in Vermont, but now they are extinct there. There are wolves on the state’s border with Canada, and wildlife biologists hope wolves will be reintroduced to Vermont.

The slender, cat-like marten is a member of the weasel family that’s native to Vermont. Once extinct, martens have been successfully reintroduced.

Vermont claims to be one of the native homes of the strange creature known as a sidehill gouger or a wampahoofus. In fact, Vermont has a trail in one of its national parks called Wampahoofus Trail. Sidehill gougers were mountain-dwelling mammals that were half deer and half boar. Although these animals appear in folklore, there is no evidence the strange mammals ever existed.

State Where Nature is Safe

Vermont has many wild places where wild animals thrive. Its forests, dairy farms, and scenic ponds are home to a wide variety of strange and beautiful animals. Visitors to the state have many opportunities to see wildlife in its most natural state.

Native Plants in Vermont

Vermont is home to a variety of plant species, primarily covered by northern hardwoods and conifers, especially in the Green Mountains. While most of the state’s terrain is forested, some open areas are mainly used for agricultural purposes. Native plants in Vermont include red baneberry, leatherleaf, and red maple.

The Coldest and Snowiest Places in Vermont

The coldest place in Vermont is the small town of Sutton which spends a large part of the year at below freezing temperatures with an average low temperature of around 26°F. However, the snowiest place in Vermont is Cabot, in Washington County, which can receive up to 100 inches of snow each year.

The Flag of Vermont

The flag of Vermont has the state’s coat of arms at its center and its motto “Freedom and Unity” displayed underneath. Within the coat of arms there are many symbols that represent the identity of Vermont. The cow and sheaves of wheat recognize the state’s agriculture and dairy industries, the pine tree and mountains are in appreciation of Vermont’s forests and landscapes, while the deer head above represents commitment to their wildlife and natural resources. The coat of arms is also framed on each side by pine needles which pay tribute to the soldiers that fought in the Battle of Plattsburgh during the War of 1812 wearing pine branches on their uniforms.

Read about:

  • extinct animals that lived in Vermont.
  • Deer Season In Vermont: Everything You Need To Know To Be Prepared
  • the longest biking trail in Vermont.
  • the highest point in Vermont.
  • the most breathtaking waterfalls in Vermont.
  • The 5 States with the Most Dangerous Blizzards (Vermont is one of them!)

Animals Found in Vermont

175 species documented in our encyclopedia

American Dog Tick American Eel American Robin American Toad Bald Eagle Barn Spider Barred Owl Belted Kingfisher Black and White Warbler Black Crappie Black Swallowtail Black Swallowtail Caterpillar Black Wasp Black-Capped Chickadee Blackburnian Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Blue Jay Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher Bluegill Bobcat Bobolink Brook Trout Brown Headed Cowbird Bullfrog Canada Lynx Canada Warbler Cecropia Moth Cedar Waxwing Chestnut-Sided Warbler Chipping Sparrow Cinnamon Bear Common Goldeneye Common Grackle Common Loon Common Yellowthroat Cooper's Hawk Coyote Dark-Eyed Junco De Kay's Brown Snake Deer Mouse Deer Tick Dog Tick Downy Woodpecker Eastern Bluebird Eastern Chipmunk Eastern Cottontail Eastern Dobsonfly Eastern Gray Squirrel Eastern Hognose Snake Eastern Kingbird Eastern Meadowlark Eastern Phoebe Eastern Turkey (Wild Turkey) Ermine European Corn Borer Evening Grosbeak Fisher Freshwater Drum Freshwater Suckerfish Garden Spider Golden Shiner Golden-Crowned Kinglet Goshawk Grapevine Beetle Gray Catbird Gray Fox Gray Tree Frog Great Blue Heron Great Crested Flycatcher Green Frog Green Heron Green June Beetle Green Sunfish Groundhog (Woodchuck) Groundhog Tick Gypsy Moth Gypsy Moth Caterpillar Hairy Woodpecker Hoary Bat House wren Imperial Moth Io Moth Japanese Beetle Killdeer Lake Sturgeon Lake Trout Largemouth Bass Least Flycatcher Leopard Frog Little Brown Bat Longnose Gar Luna Moth Luna Moth Caterpillar Magnolia Warbler Milk Snake Mink Mockingbird Mountain Lion Mourning Dove Mourning Warbler Muskellunge (Muskie) Muskrat North American Black Bear Northern Bobwhite Northern Cardinal Northern Flicker Northern Harrier Northern Parula Northern Water Snake Orange Spider Orchard Oriole Ovenbird Painted Turtle Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach Pied-Billed Grebe Pileated Woodpecker Pine Siskin Polyphemus Moth Potato Beetle Puma Purple Finch Raccoon Racer Snake Red-Bellied Woodpecker Red-Eared Slider Red-Shouldered Hawk Red-winged blackbird Ribbon Snake Ring-billed Gull River Otter Rock Bass Rose-Breasted Grosbeak Rough-Legged Hawk Ruby-Crowned Kinglet Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Saddleback Caterpillar Sandhill Crane Savannah Sparrow Scarlet Tanager Sharp-Shinned Hawk Smallmouth Bass Smooth Green Snake Snapping Turtle Snowberry Clearwing Moth Snowshoe Hare Song Sparrow Spongy Moth Squash Bee Squash Beetle Star-nosed mole Steelhead Salmon Stoat Tiger Swallowtail Tiger Swallowtail Caterpillar Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake) Tree swallow Tufted Titmouse Turkey Upland Sandpiper Veery White Crappie White-Crowned Sparrow White-tail deer Whitetail Deer Willow Flycatcher Winter Moth Wood Frog Wood Tick Wood Turtle Woolly Bear Caterpillar Writing Spider Yellow Bullhead Yellow Perch Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker Yellowthroat

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