Helpful Links
Endangered Species - Endangered and threatened species can affect how wildlife control operators inspect properties, select control methods, and perform exclusions or removals. Operators must be able to identify protected species, avoid actions that could harm them or disturb active nests, roosts, or habitats, and follow all applicable state and federal requirements. When a protected species may be present, operators should consult the appropriate wildlife agency, obtain any required permits, and document their compliance before beginning work.
Furbearer Trapping Regulations and Seasons - Wildlife Control Operators can use the Virginia DWR Furbearer Trapping Regulations and Seasons page to review current trapping laws, equipment requirements, trap-checking rules, and species-specific seasons and restrictions. The site also provides important information on humane dispatch, snares, reporting requirements, and special regulations that help operators remain compliant with Virginia law.
Best Management Practices for Trapping - Wildlife Control Operators can use the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies’ Best Management Practices (BMPs) resources to learn about humane, safe, selective, efficient, and practical trapping methods. The site provides species-specific guidance on recommended traps and techniques, along with research and educational resources related to responsible furbearer management and animal welfare.
Virginia Guidelines for Rabies Prevention and Control - all CNAP holders shall adhere to all guidelines set forth in the Virginia Department of Health publication:
Snake Distribution Information - The release site for snakes must be in suitable habitat within the same city/county or an adjacent city/county they were captured in. Snakes may only be released in an adjacent city/county if the species has been previously documented there. A CNAP holder must have written permission of the recipient landowner at the release site. Snakes that show any visible indication of disease, recent injury, or other health concerns may not be released.
Wildlife Rehabilitators - Captured wildlife that are injured, sick or orphaned and were not dispatched must be delivered by the permittee, within 48 hours of capture, to an individual or organization possessing a category II or III wildlife rehabilitation permit issued DWR. Use the searchable list of Wildlife Rehabilitators linked below.
Find a Licensed Trapper or Wildlife Control Specialist - DWR has developed a finder tool to help the public locate licensed trappers and Commercial Nuisance Animal Permit (CNAP) holders who can assist with human-wildlife conflict issues. If you are a CNAP holder, make sure you can be found on this list. If you are not on the list and you hold a current CNAP, contact Leah Card at leah.card@dwr.virginia.gov.
Go Outdoors Virginia - this site provides a convenient online resource for purchasing and managing Virginia hunting and fishing licenses and permits. Wildlife Control Operators can also use the site to report harvests, apply for quota hunts, manage their DWR customer accounts, and access vessel registration and other outdoor recreation services.
Report Violations - to report non-compliance with established laws and regulations, call 1-800-237-5712 or email WildCrime@dwr.virginia.gov. Otherwise General DWR Police can be contacted at 804-367-1000 and they can direct the call as needed.
Consumer Hotline - this joint service by the Virginia DWR and USDA Wildlife Services helps residents manage nuisance animals, report sick wildlife and find local specialists. Tollfree 855/571-9003
