Nebraska’s unique wildlife and urban coexistence often raise questions about managing raccoon populations and dealing with nuisance raccoon situations. Understanding the legal, ethical, and practical dimensions of handling raccoons is essential for responsible wildlife management.
In this exploration, we will delve into the regulations, alternatives, and considerations surrounding raccoon control in the Cornhusker State.
Whether you’re facing raccoon-related challenges or simply seeking a better grasp of your options, join us on this journey to uncover the answers to the question:
Is It Possible to Kill Raccoons in Nebraska
In Nebraska, it is permissible to hunt raccoons during the early hunting season, but trapping them is not allowed during this period.
Furthermore, relocating wild mammals more than 100 yards away from their original location is against the law.
If you find a raccoon in your home or if it is causing damage, you are allowed to trap it within the legal range of 100 yards and then proceed to eliminate it.
It’s important to be aware that enlisting the services of a nuisance wildlife control operator could result in the animal being put down, as they have the legal authority to either release the animal within a 100-yard radius or carry out euthanasia.
For other humane approaches, consult our comprehensive guide on ‘How to Get Rid of Raccoons.’
Regulations for Killing Raccoons in Nebraska
Here are the regulations governing the handling of raccoons in Nebraska:
- Raccoons can be hunted and trapped during the primary hunting and trapping season.
- For damage control purposes, raccoons and opossums can be taken at any time of the year without requiring a permit.
- It is against the law to trap and relocate a wild mammal beyond 100 yards from its original location.
- If a raccoon establishes a presence in your home or causes damage, you may eliminate it after trapping it within the permissible range of 100 yards.
- Predators posing a threat to agricultural or livestock interests can be legally eliminated without the need for a permit.
- It’s essential to be aware that while killing raccoons is legal in Nebraska, there are specific regulations in place to ensure that it is carried out humanely and responsibly. Additionally, it’s crucial to adhere to local authorities’ regulations pertaining to trapping and hunting activities.
Best Practices for Disposing of a Dead Raccoon in Nebraska
Some of the recommended practices for the proper disposal of a deceased raccoon in Nebraska:
- Burial: The appropriate disposal of a deceased animal is limited to burying it on the property where it passed away or on any adjoining land controlled by the animal’s owner or caretaker. When burying a raccoon, ensure that the burial hole is deep enough to prevent scavengers from disturbing it.
- Composting: Composting is a viable option for disposing of a deceased animal, and the state of Nebraska permits the composting of animal carcasses. However, it’s crucial to adhere to proper composting guidelines to guarantee the safety of the resulting compost.
- Animal Control: The Animal Control division of the Nebraska Humane Society is responsible for the appropriate disposal of deceased animals. If you discover a dead raccoon on your property, you can contact Animal Control, and they will handle its proper disposal.
- Moving the Carcass: If you need to relocate a dead raccoon from your property, do so while wearing gloves and using a shovel. Place the carcass in a plastic bag and ensure it is disposed of correctly.
- Reporting a Dead Animal: If you come across a deceased raccoon on a roadway or in a public area, promptly report it to Animal Control for pickup. They will ensure the carcass is disposed of in a proper manner.
It is of utmost importance to dispose of a deceased raccoon correctly to prevent the potential spread of diseases and to deter other animals from scavenging the carcass.
Risks of Killing Raccoons in Nebraska
Killing raccoons in Nebraska carries various associated risks, encompassing:
1. Legal Risks: While it is permissible to eliminate raccoons during the primary hunting and trapping season, stringent regulations are in place to ensure that this is carried out in a humane and responsible manner. Additionally, it’s illegal to trap and relocate a wild mammal more than 100 yards from its original site. If you opt for a nuisance wildlife control operator, they are legally bound to either release the animal within 100 yards or euthanize it.
2. Disease Risks: Raccoons are among the primary carriers of the rabies virus in the United States. Although public education, pet vaccinations, and post-exposure treatments have reduced the risk to humans, handling a deceased raccoon still demands precautions.
3. Environmental Risks: Relocating raccoons entails environmental risks. Recent research reveals that over 90% of relocated raccoons succumb shortly after relocation. Furthermore, it is against Nebraska state law to relocate a wild animal more than 100 yards from its original location.
4. Ethical Risks: The act of killing a raccoon may be viewed as unethical by some individuals. It is vital to explore all available options before resorting to lethal measures and ensure that any action taken is humane and responsible.
It is crucial to recognize that raccoons are classified as protected furbearing species in Nebraska, and specific hunting and trapping seasons are established. When dealing with raccoon-related issues, it is advisable to adopt preventative measures such as securing lids on outdoor trash cans and refraining from leaving pet food outside.
Alternatives to Killing Raccoons in Nebraska
There are several alternatives to resorting to lethal measures when dealing with raccoons in Nebraska, including:
Prevention: The most effective way to manage raccoon issues is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be achieved by securing lids on outdoor trash cans, avoiding leaving pet food outside, and eliminating other potential food sources.
Exclusion: Another option is to exclude raccoons from your property by sealing off entry points to your home or other structures. This can be accomplished using wire mesh or other suitable materials to cover openings.
Repellents: Various types of repellents can be employed to deter raccoons. These include ammonia-soaked tennis balls or a bowl of cider vinegar placed near living areas. Coyote urine, available at many stores, can also be used effectively to discourage raccoons.
Trapping and Relocation: While it is illegal to relocate a wild mammal more than 100 yards from its original site in Nebraska, you can trap and relocate raccoons within this designated range. Nevertheless, it’s vital to acknowledge that over 90% of relocated raccoons typically do not survive for long.
Professional Wildlife Removal: If raccoon problems persist, it is advisable to reach out to a professional wildlife removal service. These experts can assist you in safely and humanely removing raccoons from your property.
It is crucial to bear in mind that raccoons are protected as furbearing species in Nebraska, subject to specific hunting and trapping seasons.
Therefore, it is recommended to adopt preventative measures and consider humane alternatives rather than resorting to lethal measures when dealing with raccoon-related issues.
