MONTGOMERY-Every year the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries receives numerous calls regarding nuisance wildlife issues. What makes these situations a nuisance often varies from person to person and depends on their tolerance, or lack thereof, to whichever species of wildlife is being observed. While most calls are usually concerned residents wanting to report a sighting, some calls do involve situations that have resulted in property damage and/or injuries to small pets. Generally, residents reporting sightings are seeking reassurance of safety and preventative measures that can be taken to avoid conflict. These reported sightings often involve species such as, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and opossums. In addition, those reporting property damage usually involve species such as, white-tailed deer (eating crops or flowers in garden), foxes (denning under sheds), squirrels (nesting in the attic), and/or geese (leaving behind scat on lawn or sidewalks). Whatever the case may be, the AL Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (AWFF) is prepared to help resolve your wildlife nuisance situation.
In accordance with regulation 220-2-.27, AWFF may permit the take of protected wildlife, such as white-tailed deer and Canada geese, causing crop damage, property damage, or concern for human safety. Permits may only be procured after AWFF has determined that such protected wildlife should be removed for human safety, to protect agricultural crops, or to protect other property from excessive damage. However, some permits are only obtainable during select times of the year. If immediate action is required or you do not wish to obtain a permit yourself, a list of permitted Nuisance Control Operators can be provided that may be able to assist with your situation. For more on this subject or other related questions, contact the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Wildlife Section, or visit our Nuisance Wildlife Page on the Outdoor Alabama Website.
Media Release/Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
