MONTGOMERY-Many citizens who call the district Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) offices are concerned about wildlife they see near their homes. “It looked like a gray dog!” the caller emphatically states as she describes the animal that just trotted across her backyard. “I’m worried it will attack my children and pets!” A farmer stops by one of the district offices to inquire about help with feral hogs destroying his corn field. The chairman of an exclusive neighborhood association calls to complain about deer that are destroying expensive landscaping. Canada geese on golf courses, squirrels in attics − the list could go on and on.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ WFF Division can provide a 
Wildlife Control Permit (WCP), which is designed to allow citizens the opportunity to control nuisance wildlife problems similar to the examples previously described. This permit is issued to people who incur personal or property damage or where humans or public health could be at risk. A WCP is normally issued through a WFF district office, but in some circumstances are issued by the nearest wildlife biologist or conservation officer. This permit is issued to a homeowner, landowner or, per their consent, the landowner’s agent. The WCP is issued for a specified time to include a beginning and ending date. These permits must be renewed as needed after the listed expiration date. Those who are permitted to assist with control efforts are listed on the permit as well as the landowner and/or agent.
The WCP often provides methods, times and dates for control activities that are outside the parameters of general regulations governing wildlife species in Alabama. It is important to note, particularly in situations involving residential damage, wildlife control permits do not supersede local ordinances governing the discharge of firearms within city or municipal limits. Individuals who are provided WCPs are required to report the total number of nuisance animals removed under each permit. For those who are less inclined to a do-it-yourself approach, the WFF Division also permits many nuisance 
wildlife control businesses across the state. These vendors offer wildlife damage control services on a fee basis.
As Alabama’s population continues to grow, much of this expansion pushes further into previously undeveloped wildlife habitat. WFF will continue to explore effective ways to assist the citizens of Alabama with nuisance wildlife issues.
For more information or assistance regarding wildlife damage complaints in Alabama, contact the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
MEDIA RELEASE/Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources/ Richard Tharp, Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries
