Which vertebrate pests can be legally trapped?

The selection of raccoons, opossums, and skunks reflects an understanding of the legal regulations surrounding the trapping of vertebrate pests. In many jurisdictions, these specific species are considered nuisance wildlife and can be trapped under certain conditions as defined by state wildlife regulations.

Raccoons and opossums are common urban wildlife that can cause damage to property or pose health risks through the transmission of diseases. Skunks, while often not directly harmful, can become nuisances, especially due to their ability to spray and the odors associated with that defense mechanism. Therefore, these animals are often recognized as pests in residential areas, and regulatory frameworks typically allow their trapping in efforts to manage their populations and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

In contrast, the other species listed in the different choices, such as deer, domestic cats, squirrels, birds, mice, and rats, face different legal considerations. For instance, deer are often protected by hunting regulations and require specific licenses for management, while domestic cats are usually not classified as pests that can be trapped without special considerations. Birds are often protected under federal laws, making their trapping illegal in many cases unless one has the appropriate permits. Mice and rats, while certainly pests in households, generally fall under pest management