What you can do
While many people enjoy seeing and living near wildlife, there are times when wild animals get "too close" and create a nuisance, cause property damage or inflict injury on livestock, pets or people. Determining what is "too close" is often a personal judgment that hinges on each person's values and tolerance. Please refer to the information below from the Wildlife Code of Missouri.
Next Generation of Conservation
Talk About Landowner Assistance
Whether you own a working farm or just a piece of rural Missouri, you own wildlife habitat. Find out what you can do to create a healthy balance with the life on your land. Send your comments and follow related links.
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 wi ht 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 twenty-four (24) hours.
Management practices & assistance
Camping in Bear Country: To fully enjoy your camping or outdoor experience in Bear Country, the following "10 Commandments of Camping" must be observed to avoid problems with bears.
Conservation Assistance Contractors: This list has been compiled as a convenience for landowners who are looking for physical assistance to implement and/or install forest, fish and wildlife practices on their land. The list is offered with the understanding that it only represents those who provided information about their services. These listings should not be interpreted as an endorsement of these providers, or a lack of endorsement of any provider not included. Always remember to check locally for the names of individuals, groups, or businesses who may not appear on this list.
Gardens and Wildlife: As many of us have learned, plump fruits and vegetables are a desired meal for many wild animals. Therefore, this pamphlet has been designed to help you put vegetables into your freezer - not the belly of your furry neighbors.
Muskrat and Beaver Management in Wetlands: Managed wetlands attract many forms of wildlife including a variety of furbearing mammals. Muskrats and beavers are of particular interest in these areas because they are extremely dependent on wetland habitats and because their activities can have either beneficial or damaging effects on the wetland itself.