Living with Wildlife

Prevent or Solve a Problem with Wildlife

Sharing space with wildlife can be challenging at times for both humans and wildlife. However, many human-wildlife conflicts can be reduced or eliminated by taking simple steps to coexist with our wild neighbors. Learn more by exploring the links below.

Keep Me Wild Campaign (tips for coexisting with wildlife)
Report a Wildlife Incident or Encounter
Contact a CDFW Regional Office
Wildlife Rehabilitation (sick, injured, orphaned)
Wildlife Mortality Reporting
State Wildlife Action Plan
California's Native Wildlife Database

Threats to Wildlife

Pollution awareness video (Something's Fishy at the River) (YouTube)
Report an oil spill or pollution incident: Call (800) 852-7550
Dangers of rodenticide (rat poison)

Restricted, Exotic and Invasive Species

Do I Need a Permit?

Services CDFW Does NOT Provide

Removal of nuisance wildlife from private property. Opossums under houses, squirrels in chimneys, raccoons in attics, skunks in garages. Visit the U.C. Agricultural & Natural Resources Integrated Pest Management Program for guidance, or contact a private pest management service for assistance. County animal control offices may have lists of available resources but typically are unable to physically respond to nuisance wildlife calls.

Removal of predators or wildlife that cause property damage (depredation). Report a wildlife incident or encounter to your CDFW Regional Office or the Wildlife Incident Reporting online system. If warranted, you may request a depredation permit that allows you, or an authorized agent, to kill a specific animal causing damage to your property.

Removal of insects or spiders. Contact a pest control service for assistance, or visit the U.C. Agricultural & Natural Resources Integrated Pest Management Program for guidance.

Handling or removal of domestic animals. Domestic animals (e.g. livestock, dogs, cats) are under the jurisdiction of local government. Contact your local Animal Services Division or animal control office for information and assistance.

Handling or removal of marine mammals. Marine mammals are protected by both State and Federal law. CDFW does not have authority to manage marine mammal populations but enforces regulations for their protection. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is the lead government agency. Report dead, injured or stranded marine mammals to the NOAA Fisheries at 1 (866) 767-6114.