Vermont Wildlife Alert: The Dangerous Pests You Need to Watch Out For Right Now

Here is what Vermonters need to watch for in the woods and backyards this month.

1. The Winter Tick "Moose Crisis."

On April 2, 2026, Vermont wildlife officials announced a targeted moose hunt for later this year, specifically to combat a devastating surge in Winter Ticks. Unlike the ticks that bite humans, these parasites congregate by the tens of thousands on a single moose.

• The Situation: High moose densities in the Northeast Kingdom (specifically WMU-E) have allowed winter tick populations to explode. These "ghost moose" lose their hair from rubbing against trees to scratch the itch, often leading to hypothermia and death.
• The Goal: By reducing the moose population density now, the state aims to "starve" the tick population, which requires a host to survive the winter.
• What You'll See: If you are hiking in Essex County, you may see moose with large white patches of bare skin. Report any sightings of struggling or overly lethargic moose to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

2. Emerald Ash Borer: "Release the Wasps."

April 2026 marks a major milestone in Vermont's fight against the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). With the beetle now established in 13 of Vermont's 14 counties, the state is shifting from containment to biological control.

• The News: As of April 8, 2026, the City of Montpelier is awaiting final approval to release three species of parasitoid wasps in Hubbard Park this summer.
• The "Good" Pests: These tiny, stingless wasps are specialists that only target EAB eggs and larvae. They do not sting humans or pets.
• Action Plan: If you own woodland with ash trees, April is the time to finalize your management plan. Check for "blonde" bark (where woodpeckers have stripped the outer layer to get to the larvae) and D-shaped exit holes.

3. Early Tick Surge for Humans

While "Winter Ticks" are a moose problem, the Black-legged (Deer) Tick is a human problem that has started early this year. Following a mild winter, health experts at Upstate Medical's tick lab reported a 69% increase in tick activity as of early April 2026.

• The Risk: One in three ticks in the region currently carries the bacteria for Lyme Disease or Anaplasmosis.
• The "Poppy Seed" Warning: Nymphs are emerging now. They are the size of a poppy seed and are often found in leaf litter.
• Protection: With spring turkey season prep underway, hunters and hikers should treat their clothes with permethrin.

4. Black Bear Emergence: "Got Bears?"

Vermont Fish and Wildlife issued a "Got Bears?" alert on April 13, 2026. As the snow melts, hungry bears are emerging straight from their dens into residential neighborhoods.

• The Conflict: Natural food sources like skunk cabbage are just starting to emerge, but bird feeders are much easier to find.
• The Policy: Take down bird feeders immediately. In Vermont, it is illegal to feed bears, even unintentionally. If a bear finds food at your house, it will return, often leading to property damage or the need to euthanize the bear.
• Pet Safety: Bears are particularly defensive of their cubs this month. Always turn on a porch light and make noise before letting your dog out at night.

5. Early Detection: "The Mile-a-Minute" Map

On March 18, 2026, Vermont Invasives released a new Early Detection Plant Pest Map. This is a call to action for hikers and gardeners to spot invasive plants before they become "un-killable" later in the summer.

• Key Targets: Japanese Stiltgrass, Tree of Heaven, and Mile-a-Minute Weed.
• Why April? These plants are among the first to leaf out, making them easy to spot against the still-brown forest floor.
• The Spotted Lanternfly Connection: The Tree of Heaven is the primary host for the Spotted Lanternfly. Identifying and removing these trees now is Vermont's best defense against a future Lanternfly invasion.

Summary Checklist for Vermont Residents

1. Bird Feeders Down: Avoid fine and habituating bears by removing all outdoor food sources.
2. Scrape the Ash: If you see "woodpecker blonding" on your ash trees, contact a county forester.
3. Check for "Mud": If you've traveled to NY or MA recently, check your vehicle for gray, mud-like Spotted Lanternfly egg masses.
4. Turkey Season Prep: Use tick repellent and perform full-body checks after scouting for the upcoming May turkey season.