VTF&W Reports Acorns Abundant in Some Areas, Beechnut Production Excellent in Most of Vermont

Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department biologists survey oak and beech stands around the state each fall to assess how plentiful acorns and beechnuts are because they are important fall foods for wildlife.

“We observed a wide spectrum of acorn production this fall across Vermont,” said bear biologist Jaclyn Comeau.  “Most areas had fair to good acorn crops, but some locations experienced crop failures while others saw bumper crops.”

“Beechnut production is excellent throughout much of Vermont,” said Comeau.  “The most abundant crops are in Southern Vermont, but production is also excellent through much of Central and Northwestern Vermont.  The Northeast Kingdom is the only region of Vermont with consistently poor beechnut production this year.”

In areas where acorns or beechnuts are not abundant, many of Vermont’s wildlife species will be on the move looking for alternative food options before winter, and some bears will enter winter dens early.

“But no matter where you live, it is important for Vermonters to remain diligent about securely storing common bear attractants such as garbage and birdseed until winter conditions arrive and all bears enter their dens,” added Comeau.  “We recommend waiting until December when snow is on the ground before putting out bird feeders.”

Vermont Fish and Wildlife has lots of helpful information about living with black bears on its website.