Furbearer Hunting & Trapping

Furbearer Hunting & Trapping Methods

Furbearer Hunting & Trapping Regulations changed in 2024. Please consult vtfishandwildlife.com for current regulations.

Rodenticide

Biologists in the Northeast are increasingly concerned about the widespread use of rodenticides and their impact on wildlife including bobcats, fisher, foxes, coyotes, hawks, owls, and otters. Modern rodenticides known as second-generation anticoagulants are particularly problematic as they accumulate in rodents, taking up to ten days to show effects. These rodenticides interfere with blood clotting in an animal, potentially suppressing reproductive capacity and immune function, which increases vulnerability to parasites, disease and predators.

In Vermont, we are actively engaged in researching any potential rodenticide impacts in collaboration with a larger regional effort. This research relies heavily on carcasses provided by trappers and hunters, without which this crucial information would remain unavailable.

Otters, bobcat and fisher are monitored through mandatory carcass collection, providing valuable data on rodenticide exposure.

From 2018–2021, all 71 tested fisher showed rodenticide exposure. The majority were exposed to multiple compounds, suggesting multiple exposure times. Samples were collected statewide, which indicates widespread use of rodenticides in Vermont. Bobcats also showed high exposure levels. Despite this, tested animals appeared healthy and there is no noticeable impact on fisher or bobcat population trends.

Rare Species Reporting Form

Can you tell the difference between a Canada lynx and a bobcat? How about an American marten, long-tailed weasel, fisher, and mink? The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife is monitoring rare species like the Canada lynx and American marten, which might be present in the state. Even if you're unsure about identifying these species, please report any sightings you suspect might be a Canada lynx or American marten.

Canada Lynx, federally threatened and state endangered, can be distinguished from bobcats by their long legs, large snowshoe-like feet, long ear tufts, and the lack of dark patterning on the inside of their legs. American marten, state-endangered, typically inhabit high-elevation areas with dense canopy cover. They are smaller than fisher and have a distinctive reddish throat patch and black “eyebrows.”

If you observe a rare mammal species, please use the Department’s rare species reporting form available on our website: (https://anrweb.vt.gov/FWD/FW/FurbearerReportingForm.aspx). You can report sightings of Canada lynx, mountain lion, wolf, and American marten. While we have no confirmed sightings of mountain lions or wolves, we encourage you to report any suspected sightings. Your reports help us track the presence or absence of these species in Vermont. Photographs are especially helpful for accurate identification.

Thank you for your interest and assistance in protecting Vermont's rare and endangered species!