When a raccoon is tearing up your attic or a groundhog is undermining your shed, you want the problem gone—fast. However, wildlife in Kentucky is property of the state, managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources (KDFWR). There are strict laws governing how, when, and by whom these animals can be handled.

Violating these laws can result in significant fines. Here is what Louisville homeowners need to know before taking matters into their own hands.

1. The “Relocation” Rule (The Big One)

This is the law that surprises homeowners the most.

The Law: In Kentucky, it is generally illegal to trap and relocate high-risk rabies vector species (RVS) to a new location. This includes Raccoons, Skunks, and Coyotes.

Why? Moving these animals spreads disease. If you trap a raccoon in Louisville that is incubating rabies or distemper and release it in a forest in Bullitt County, you have just introduced that disease to a new population.

The Consequence: If you trap a raccoon on your property, legally you must either:

1. Release it on-site (which doesn’t solve your problem).
2. Euthanize it humanely.

Most homeowners do not have the means or desire to euthanize an animal. Licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators (like us) have specific protocols for handling these animals legally.

2. Protected Species: Bats

Bats are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act.

The Law:

• You cannot kill, poison, or injure a bat.
• You cannot trap bats.
• Blackout Dates: You cannot evict bats from a structure during maternity season (May 1st – August 15th).

During this time, flightless baby bats are in the roost. Sealing them in is a federal offense and results in a house full of dead bats. We can only perform exclusions in early spring or late summer/fall.

3. Protected Species: Birds

Most birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

The Law: It is illegal to remove, destroy, or possess the active nest (with eggs or young) of any native bird species. This includes Robins, Cardinals, Swifts, and Woodpeckers. You must wait until the babies fledge and leave the nest before you can remove it.

Exceptions: Invasive species are NOT protected. You can remove the nests of:

• European Starlings
• House Sparrows
• Pigeons (Rock Doves)

4. Trapping Rules

If you decide to trap an animal (like a groundhog or opossum) on your own property:

• You must check the trap every 24 hours. Leaving an animal in a trap for days is inhumane and illegal.
• The trap must be labeled with your name and address.
• You must have permission from the landowner where you intend to release the animal (it is illegal to dump animals on public land or parks without a permit).

5. Shooting Nuisance Wildlife

Kentucky law allows landowners to shoot wildlife that is causing damage to property. However, this is superseded by local ordinances. In Louisville Metro (Jefferson County) and most suburban cities, discharging a firearm is illegal due to safety ordinances. Therefore, shooting is rarely a legal option in the city.

The Professional Advantage

Licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators (NWCOs) carry special permits that allow us to manage wildlife in ways the general public cannot. We know the seasons, the protected species, and the legal transport requirements.

Don’t risk a fine or a legal headache. Call Critter Removal of Louisville to handle your wildlife issues legally, ethically, and safely.