Managing Wildlife Problems in Missouri

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) provides statewide wildlife damage management services and technical assistance through the Private Lands Services Division and the Wildlife Damage Management Program. For more information, contact a wildlife damage biologist with the MDC or visit Private Land Assistance on the MDC Web site.

Section 3CSR10-4.130 Owner May Protect Property, Wildlife Code of Missouri

Subject to federal regulations governing the protection of property from migratory birds, any wildlife except deer, turkey, black bears and any endangered species, which beyond reasonable doubt is damaging property may be captured or killed by the owner of the property being damaged, or by his/her representative, at any time and without permit, but only by shooting or trapping except by written authorization of the director, or, for avian control, of his or her designee. Except as authorized, use of traps shall be in compliance with 3CSR10-8.510. Wildlife may be so controlled only on the owner's property within twenty-four (24) hours and shall be disposed of only in accordance with his/her instructions. Deer, turkey, black bears and endangered species that are causing damage may be killed only with the permission of an agent of the department and by methods authorized by him/her. Mountain lions attacking or killing livestock or domestic animals, or attacking human beings, may be killed without prior permission, but the kill must be reported immediately to an agent of the department and the mountain lion carcass must be surrendered to him/her within 24 hours.

New November 2002