Imagine a mammal that weighs less than a dime, or one that runs on water, and another that's venomous! All of these mammals, and more, can be found in Vermont.
Of 58 species of mammals currently found in Vermont, 35 are considered to be small mammals, including: bats, shrews, squirrels, voles, mice, moles, weasels, rats, lemmings, and jumping mice. Small mammals in Vermont weigh less than about 1.1 pounds. About 17 species of mammals are considered rare and of conservation concern. Five hibernating bat species are state-listed as Threatened and Endangered following a recent frightening decline due to White-nose Syndrome.
Eastern Chipmunk in Woodstock, Vermont. © K.P. McFarland
From small mammal studies to iNaturalist observations, we are gathering as many data sources here as possible.
For example, The University of Vermont and the NorthWoods Stewardship Center conducted the first Vermont Small Mammal Atlas from 2008 to 2011, with the goal of learning more about the distribution and habitat requirements of 23 species of terrestrial small mammals (not bats) in Vermont. The atlas pooled data from field surveys conducted at 47 sites across the state from 2008 to 2010, incidental small mammal data collected in 1998 during herptile surveys, records from the UVM Zadock Thomson Natural History Collection and several other museums, and a literature review (including some unpublished sources).
This atlas aims to unite all past mammal occurrence datasets and continue collecting records into the future. And you can help!
