Animal Services
Wildlife
Animal Services will respond to Wildlife calls for service and follows NC Wildlife Resources Commission guidelines for interacting with local wildlife.
You can contact NC Wildlife Resources Commission: Preventing Wildlife Conflicts (ncwildlife.org) or Call 866-318-2401. The Wildlife Helpline is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Human-wildlife interactions are becoming more common with the rise of human populations and development of natural areas. There are many techniques that humans can utilize on their property to maintain positive interactions with wildlife. The information below provides general techniques and preventative measures for N.C. residents to prevent and alleviate issues with wildlife. Keep in mind that wild animals are in search of food, water, shelter and safety. Eliminating these needs on your property can greatly reduce wildlife problems.
Do not feed wildlife!
Feeding wildlife can cause animals to lose their fear of people and become accustomed to human presence. This can lead to animals becoming aggressive and can increase the spread of wildlife diseases. Additionally, human food is not healthy for wild animals, and they do not need food from humans to survive.
FAQ’S WILDLIFE
1. Who picks up dead animals?
Property owners are responsible for disposing of dead animals on their property. The Department of Transportation may remove dead animals on city/county-maintained roadways if it is causing traffic concerns.
2. If a wild animal is out during the day. Does it have rabies?
NO. Simply seeing an animal out during the day does not mean it has rabies. Some animals in urban/suburban locations will come out during the day due to the lack of threats posed by people and the abundance of food available. However, if the animal shows signs of rabies- such as aggression, stumbling, unresponsiveness, or foaming at the mouth- call the PCAS department.
3. Will PCAS or NC Wildlife Resource Commission remove a wild animal from my yard or neighborhood?
NO. PCAS and NC WRC do not provide any trapping or wildlife removal services. If the animal is causing property damage, you should contact a Wildlife Control Agent. Wildlife Control Agents are trained professionals that can assess the problem and obtain a Wildlife Depredation Permit if warranted.
4. Can I trap animals on my property?
NO. The Animal Welfare Ordinance Sec. 3-4. – Permit required—Unlawful to trap animals does not allow trapping without a permit.
5. What should I do if I find injured wildlife?
Animals will often be more aggressive if they are injured. Be extremely cautious when approaching any potentially injured wildlife. If an injured animal is found, please call PCAS for assistance.
6. I found a baby animal, what should I do?
If you have found a juvenile animal by itself, it is very important to first determine whether it truly is orphaned. Many animals will be left alone during the day so that predators are not alerted to their presence. If the animal does not have any visible wounds and appears active and alert, chances are it is not truly orphaned, and the parents are close by keeping an eye on things. It is always best to leave the animal alone. If it is still there in 24 hours, call PCAS for assistance.
7. If I touch a baby bird will the mother abandon it?
NO. Birds do not readily abandon nests because they “smell humans”. However, if a nest is repeatedly disturbed by humans (especially before the eggs hatch) a mother bird may choose to abandon the nest if she believes the area is no longer safe. If you find a young bird on the ground that is featherless or fuzzy and has closed eyes, try to locate the nest and gently place the bird back inside the nest. If the bird has feathers, has open eyes, and appears alert it has likely fledged the nest and is being cared for by its parents on the ground.
Hours:
Daily
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Emergency Hours as Required
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location
1415 Parkview Dr
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
Contact us:
Phone: (252) 335-2848
or online