By following some basic tips, you can get pretty close to wildlife in Vermont. But remember, be respectful and always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Wear dull-colored clothing or camouflage, move slowly and stay quiet to avoid spooking wildlife.Consider using a blind or other natural cover.
Check the Season
We frequently update our website with seasonal information on the best wildlife watching opportunities for the current time of year.
The patience required to view wildlife can greatly enhance the payoff when wildlife does finally present itself.
Bring the Right Tools
A spotting scope, binoculars, or a camera with a zoom lens can greatly enhance your ability to see wildlife.
Go at Dawn and Dusk
Most species are active during the first hours after dawn and a few hours before dusk.
Look Up and Down
Remember to scan the ground and up in the trees — you may spot the bird you’ve been looking for or a crouching bobcat you otherwise would have missed.
Watch for Signs
Wildlife leave trails behind, from an otter’s slide to bear droppings to moose trails through the woods. These are all known as “sign” and are an indicator that wildlife have been by recently.
Consider the Weather
Wildlife vary considerably in their level of activity based on the weather. For example, hawks are more likely to migrate on warm, clear days while ducks and moose are more active on cold, cloudy days. In general, most mammals and birds, from deer to squirrels to songbirds, tend to hunker down in stormy weather.