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.
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.
Mange
Information about mange including causes, symptoms, transmission and veterinarians' cautions about trying to treat wildlife
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.
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
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Know what to do if you find sick or injured wildlife.
Wildlife Futures Program Fact Sheets
PennVet's Wildlife Futures Program working with the Northeast Wildlife Disease Cooperative has created fact sheets featuring diseases that affect wildlife of the Northeast U.S.