Place the trap along an active trail or where nutria are seen. When a conflict exists between humans and animals it is usually because the animal is only doing what it needs to do to survive. Measurements represent minimum height, width, and length requirements. Coastal razor clam digging at Mocrocks starts Friday, March 3, Copalis also opens Saturday, March 4, Columbia River spring Chinook season kicks off March 1, Surplus adult hatchery steelhead planted in some coastal year-round lakes to boost fishing, Monofilament recovery and recycling program, Why feeding wildlife is more harmful than helpful, Coastal recreational bottomfishing opens Saturday, March 11 with new rockfish regulations, Halibut fishing in some Puget Sound areas start Thursday, April 6; coastal areas open Thursday, May 4. Experienced trappers know the behavior of each species and the methods required to trap them. Free strategy session. Place the trap along a travel route or immediately outside the den entrance, using the funnel method (Fig. Dont give raccoons access to garbage:Keep your garbage can lid on tight by securing it with rope, chain, bungee cords, or weights. It should, however, be considered the last option, because trapping it presents many problems for both the animals and the trapper. Reverse this procedure when attempting to capture a diurnal (active during daylight) animal. (a) The fee for this license is thirty-five dollars for residents, one hundred sixty-five dollars for nonresidents, and fifteen dollars for youth. Raccoons often use culverts as a safe way to cross under roads. Sift dirt onto the bottom of the cage to cover the wire bottom. All bats in Washington are protected and cannot be hunted, trapped, or killed. Change the trap location or try different bait if it doesn't produce a catch within three days. It costs $35 for residents, $165 for non-residents, $15 for youth. A WCO may assist a landowner, with their permission, by addressing damage to public or private property caused by the following species: raccoon, fox, bobcat, beaver, muskrat, mink, river otter, weasel, hare, opossum, cottontail rabbits, predatory birds (see Terms to Know), and unclassified wildlife, including coyotes, nutria, and eastern gray squirrels. A disease that contributes significantly to raccoon mortality is canine distemper. Set the trap in an old brush pile, or under an outbuilding or fence, since the weasel is likely to investigate any small covered area. Unless otherwise specified in permits issued by WDFW, humanely dispatched wildlife must be disposed of within twenty-four hours, or as soon as feasible, in a manner so as not to become a public or common problem or cause pollution of surface or groundwater. Ethical wildlife photography practices Enjoy a hunt of a different kind while remembering these ethical practices during the thrill of the chase. Raccoons used to a particular food source, type of shelter, or human activity will seek out familiar situations and surroundings. Individuals will eat together if a large amount of food is available in an area. Bite wounds from raccoons can result in fractures and disease transmission. Place the trap just outside the burrow and partially in the water, taking every precaution that the captured muskrat will not be under water and will be able to breathe. Foxes are long-bodied animals, so the trap must be long. Poultry or rabbit carcass and feathers for a sight attractor. Put garbage cans out for pickup in the morning, after raccoons have returned to their resting areas. Finally, these hungry visitors might approach a neighbor who doesnt share your appreciation of the animals. (a) Federally listed threatened or endangered species will require federal permits or federal authority, in addition to a state permit. Release nocturnal animals at night and diurnal species during daylight. Look for scratch marks on trees and other structures that raccoons climb. Raccoons make several types of noises, including a purr, a chittering sound, and various growls, snarls, and snorts. No other trap that grips an animals body is legal, even with a STP, and this includes traps such as dog-proof raccoon traps, mole traps, or neck snares. Free strategy session. A WCO may not harass, control, or kill the following classified game animals: black bear, cougar, moose, deer, or elk. Take and pass the WDFW-approved WCO basic certification course. They also recognize signs of diseases and nursing females. While shooting can be effective in eliminating a single raccoon, it is generally limited to rural situations. Sometimes, you may need to evict a raccoon or other animal from a building. (67) "Unclassified wildlife" means wildlife existing in Washington in a wild state that have not been classified as big game, game animals, game birds, predatory birds, protected wildlife, endangered wildlife, or deleterious exotic wildlife. Trapping is a viable option if you cannot resolve a conflict with an animal by other means, such as removing the attractant, installing a barrier, or applying a scare tactic. An animal that is simply passing through the yard or living in a tree in the backyard should not be trapped. People, organizations, or agencies that illegally move raccoons should be willing to assume liability for any damages or injuries caused by these animals. Set the trap and then trip it several times to be sure the cage is steady and functioning properly. (Cats claws dont rotate and they have to back down trees.) (c) If an owner has attempted nonlethal damage control techniques and acquires verbal or written approval from the department, they may kill an individual (one) deer or elk during the physical act of damaging commercial crops within a twelve-month period. Unclassified Wildlife Ticket Attorney Mercer Island. Alternatively, a funnel-shaped piece of aluminum flashing can be fitted around the tree or other vertical structure. to 7 x 7 x 24 in., longer if a double-door trap is used. Freshly cut tree sprouts or branches, commercial scents and lures. Look for tracks in sand, mud, or soft soil, also on deck railings, fire escapes, and other surfaces that raccoons use to gain access to structures. However, releases of this kind should not be confused with moving problem wildlife, which may be illegal. Species in Washington Learn more about a specific fish or wildlife species in Washington. In the State of Washington, it is unlawful to possess or transport live wildlife or wild birds (except starlings and house sparrows by falconers) without a permit (WAC 220-450-030). Artificial feeding also tends to concentrate raccoons in a small area; overcrowding can spread diseases and parasites. (7) Except as specifically provided in a permit from the department or a rule of the commission, people taking wildlife under this rule are subject to the laws and rules of the state. This permit is only valid for 30 days and requires a report within 10 days of the permit expiration, regardless of trapping success. If the animal is to be euthanized, decide who, and if necessary, how it will be done. Flush the wound liberally with tap water. Better yet, buy garbage cans with clamps or other mechanisms that hold lids on. Due to the weight and dangers associated with suitcase traps, it is recommended that only people experienced with these traps use them. Examples of live traps include cage traps, box traps, and suit-case traps. Usually observed at night, they are occasionally seen during the day eating or napping in a tree or searching elsewhere for food. A person must have the permission of the property owner to dispose of an animal on their property. (e) Landowners are encouraged to allow general season hunting and trapping on their property to help minimize damage potential and concerns. You can also pound rebar stakes into the ground at the corners, or wire or clamp the trap to a stable object. Its search for a den site may lead it to an attic, chimney, or crawl space. Use brush or grass on the top and sides of the trap to give the appearance of a natural "cubby" or a recess in a rock outcrop or in brush. The unclassified wildlife would be the examples you gave below such as rats, starlings etc.). If the doors do not work fast enough, place small stones or other weights on top of the door to make it drop faster. (1) A big game hunting license is required to hunt for big game. Large owls and eagles will prey on young raccoons. However, if a WCO wants to possess/sell the hide of a problem wildlife species trapped. Place some bait just outside the trap and spray the inside with apple juice to increase effectiveness. Endangered species means wildlife designated by the, Combined sewer overflow means the discharge of untreated or. WDFW enlists the help of private citizens who have skills and training in the capture and handling of many wildlife species that commonly generate wildlife complaints. A small game license also allows the holder to hunt for unclassified wildlife. Note:Raccoons will attempt to use surrounding trees or structures as an avenue to access the area above the barrier. You may not sell a fur acquired under a Special Trapping Permit. A trap set on the roof is safe from theft, children, and pets, and offers a better chance for catching the squirrel. Most comprehensive library of legal defined terms on your mobile device, All contents of the lawinsider.com excluding publicly sourced documents are Copyright 2013-, High global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons. The Townsend mole (shown here), like all moles have broad front feet, the toes of which terminate in stout claws faced outward for digging. Providing a letter of recommendation from a currently certified WCO or trapper stating the individual has two years experience. SE Olympia, WA 98501Telephone (360) 902-2515, 2315 North Discovery PlaceSpokane Valley, WA 99216-1566, Telephone: (509) 892-1001Fax: (509) 921-2440, 1550 Alder Street NWEphrata, WA 98823-9699, Telephone: (509) 754-4624Fax: (509) 754-5257, 1701 South 24th AvenueYakima, WA 98902-5720, Telephone (509) 575-2740Fax (509) 575-2474, 16018 Mill Creek BoulevardMill Creek, WA 98012-1541, Telephone (425) 775-1311Fax (425) 338-1066, Telephone (360) 696-6211Fax (360) 906-6776, Telephone (360) 249-4628Fax (360) 249-1229, Introduction to the Best Practices Training Manual for nuisance wildlife control operators, Balancing the Needs of People and Wildlife, Rabbit, Eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), North American Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum), Florida Black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus), Louisiana Black bear (Ursus americanus luteolus), Mississippi Nuisance Wildlife Trapping/Relocating Permit Application, Nuisance Bat Encounters Temporary Prohibition on Release of Bats, RE: Nuisance wildlife control involving bats encountered in residences, Oklahoma Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Title 800 Information, Introduction to New York WCO Training Program, Pelican Damage Prevention and Control Methods. Make all connections flush and secure to keep mice, rats, and other mammals out. The raccoon is a native mammal, measuring about 3 feet long, including its 12-inch, bushy, ringed tail. A WCO or property owner can obtain the current application for a STP by searching for Special Trapping Permit on the WDFW website (http://wdfw.wa.gov). RCW 77.15.075 and 2012 c 176 s 8 are each amended to 7 read as follows: 8 (1) Fish and wildlife officers shall have and exercise, 9 throughout the state, such police powers and duties as are vested in 10 sheriffs and peace officers generally. The owner must notify the department within twenty-four hours of kill. Each of their front feet has five dexterous toes, allowing raccoons to grasp and manipulate food and other items. Fish-flavored cat food, corn, ripe bananas, bacon, sardines, peanut butter, jelly, marshmallows, (resemble eggs and have eye appeal). of Fish and Wildlife's list of State Endangered, Threatened, Sensitive, and Candidate species, as well as species listed (or proposed) by the U.S. Fish and wildlife officers are We've got your back. Cover the cage bottom with soil. Unclassified Wildlife Ticket Lawyer Issaquah. If all efforts to dissuade a problem raccoon fail, the animal may have to be trapped. Single- or double-door type, 11 x 11 x 36 in. Trap problem wildlife without a recreational trapping license. . There are a variety of options: With this option, an animal is trapped and released on site after its reentry into a structure is prevented by physical exclusion. If it is not feasible to dispose of a carcass on-site, contact a local veterinarian or wildlife damage control company for assistance with disposal. Never trap an adult animal that is caring for dependent offspring. Some success has also come from using a 4 foot long cage trap set right at the water's edge next to the beaver slide. It is caused by a virus and is spread most often when animals come in contact with the bodily secretions of animals infected with the disease. For Douglas squirrels, see above. Set the trap in the vicinity of an animal kill or a travel way to and from cover. Animal Problem Any animal that threatens or damages timber or private property or threatens or injures livestock or any other domestic animal. Cut the material with tin snips and file down any sharp edges. The diameter is about the size of the end of your little finger. Stake the basket down so it cannot be moved. While shooting an animal may sound extreme, in many cases it is the best available method because of its quickness, and it may cause the least amount of stress and pain to the animal. Hence, it is more effective to make the site less attractive to raccoons than it is to routinely trap them. A WCO certificate does not cover the use of drugs, poisons, or chemicals to capture or kill wildlife causing damage. Feed dogs and cats indoors and keep them in at night:If you must feed your pets outside, do so in late morning or at midday, and pick up food, water bowls, leftovers, and spilled food well before dark every day. (5) Tribal members may assist property owners under the conditions of valid comanagement agreements between tribes and the department. Look and listen for youngeven outside the animal's known birthing season. (See Evicting Animals from Buildings for exclusion techniques.). A dirty trap should be washed, disinfected with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts of water and let it remain on for 20 minutes), and thoroughly rinsed. Raccoons die from encounters with vehicles, hunters, and trappers, and from disease, starvation, and predation. A downside to this approach is the possibility that the animal may simply enter someone else's attic, chimney, or similar place. Then, if someone else has to trap the animal, they will be dealing with a trap-smart animal, making its capture difficult. However, a special trapping permit is required for the use of all traps other than live traps (RCW 77.15.192,77.15.194). River otters may be trapped in suitcase type traps used to capture beavers. In developed areas, raccoon travel along fences, next to buildings, and near food sources. Placing guide logs on either side of the path between the burrow opening and the trap will help funnel the animal into the trap. The only three traps that may be authorized with this permit are a 1) Conibear-type trap submerged in water, 2) padded leg-hold trap, or 3) non-strangling foot snare. Owner A person who has a legal right to commercial crops, livestock, or other private property that was damaged during a wildlife interaction. Single-door type, 5 x 5 x 15 in. Put food in secure compost containers and clean up barbecue areas:Dont put food of any kind in open compost piles; instead, use a securely covered compost structure or a commercially available raccoon-proof composter to prevent attracting raccoons and getting exposed to their droppings. Fish, fresh chicken liver, chicken entrails. 2). Mortality rates increase when animals are subjected to stress and trauma associated with capture, handling, transport, and being released into an unfamiliar territory. Single-door type, 10 x 12 x 42 in. Raccoons can be seen throughout the year, except during extremely cold periods. To calm down an active animal, the trap can be covered with a dark towel or other cover. Live burial, freezing a live animal, and drowning are unacceptable methods of euthanasia and are considered inhumane according to the guidelines set by the American Veterinarian Medical Association. (1) The director shall investigate the habits and distribution of the various species of wildlife native to or adaptable to the habitats of the state. Raccoons pair up only during the breeding season, and mating occurs as early as January to as late as June. (a) Predatory birds other than crows and magpies (defined in RCW 77.08.010) and unclassified wildlife that are in the act of damaging commercial crops or attacking livestock or other domestic animals may be killed with the express permission of the crop, livestock, domestic animals, or property owner at any time on private property, to protect Unclassified wildlife: Taking unclassified wildlife in violation of any department rule by killing, hunting, taking, holding, possessing, or maliciously injuring or harming wildlife that is not classified as big game, game animals, game birds, protected wildlife, or endangered wildlife. Look for wear marks, body oil, and hairs on wood and other rough surfaces, particularly around the edges of den entrances. Two questions to ask yourself before attempting to trap an animal are: (1) Can I do this legally (comply with state laws regarding trapping and transporting wildlife? If the carcass is patterned by red spots where pointed teeth have bruised the flesh but not broken the skin, the bird was probably played with by one or more dogs until it died. Eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus) Eastern coyotes (Canis latrans var.) A covered worm box is another alternative. A criminal background check is conducted upon initial certification and for each recertification. The Department of Fish & Wildlife is authorized to classify wildlife as game, as endangered or protected species, or as a predatory bird consistent with RCW 77.08.010 and 77.12.020. Finally, if a place in the wild or an urban green space is perfect for raccoons, raccoons are probably already there. The peak mating period is March to April. If you need help with nuisance wildlife, call a WDFW-certified wildlife control operator. Washington, black bears live in a diverse array of forested habitats, from coastal rainforests to the dry woodlands of the Cascades' eastern slopes. To be eligible for WCO certification, applicants must: A Washington WCO Certificate allows a WCO to do the following: As a practice, whenever you have a question about a specific species or use of a specific trap, please refer to the WDFW website, call your regional WDFW office, call the Wildlife Customer Service desk in Olympia at (360) 902-2515, or email specialtrapping@dfw.wa.gov. Did you get a Unclassified Wildlife Ticket in King County under RCW 77.15.160? When used properly, cage traps can offer non-lethal solutions to conflicts. Set the trap near an active burrow with signs of recent diggings. 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