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Wildlife Diseases

Healthy wildlife and ecosystems have evolved defenses to fend off most diseases before they have devastating impacts.

But when wildlife is stressed, exposure to microbes, parasites, toxins, and other biological and physical agents can cause wildlife diseases. Here is information about diseases found in the Northeast and diseases of concern in Vermont, as well as information on what to do if you find a sick or injured animal.


Avian Influenza Wildlife Health Bulletin

Avian influenza (AI) a serious and harmful disease found primarily in birds and has been recently reported in neighboring states. This webpage outlines steps to report possible cases of AI to wildlife managers.  

  • Avian Influenza Fact Sheet
    Wildlife Futures Progam's factsheet explains the cause, significance, distribution and management of this disease affecting wild and domestic birds.

 

 

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Wildlife Futures Program Fact Sheets

PennVet's Wildlife Futures Program working with the Northeast Wildlife Disease Cooperative has created more than 50 fact sheets featuring diseases that affect wildlife of the Northeast U.S.

 

 

Canine Distemper

Information about canine distemper in wildlife, including susceptible species, transmission and symptoms.

 

 

Chronic Wasting Disease

Information about this nervous system disease that affects certain members of the deer family.

 

 

Lyme Disease

Information about Lyme disease and what you can do to protect yourself.

 

 

Rabies

Information about rabies and what you can do to protect you, your family and your pets.

 

 

Raccoon Roundworm

Information about the raccoon roundworm parasite and how to prevent infection.

 

 

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus has been detected in a variety of bird species. Some infected birds, especially crows and jays, are known to get sick and die from the infection.

 

 

White-nose Syndrome in Bats

Learn about this disease affecting hibernating bats and it impact on Vermont’s bats.

 

 

Wildlife Rehabilitation 

Know what to do if you find sick or injured wildlife.

 

 

Sick Acting Bats Citizen Reporting Form

Help Vermont’s bats by reporting sightings of sick acting bats including:

  • sightings of bats during the winter months
  • bats having trouble flying
  • bats dying
  • bats with a white fungus on the face or wings