Wildlife Information

Wildlife Inquiries and Assistance:

If you are in need of assistance or Information regarding wildlife issues please contact the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Helpline by calling 1-855-571-9003.

Wildlife Emergency Response:

Gloucester County Animal Control Officers will respond to the following wildlife emergencies:

  • Wildlife in the living area of a residence or occupied area of a business that poses a threat to humans or domestic animals. Animal Control Officers will respond to snakes inside the home that are known to be a venomous species ONLY. If you need assistance identifying snake species, please check the Virginia Herpetological Society website.
  • Wildlife displaying signs and symptoms of rabies
  • Sick or injured wildlife
  • Wildlife that has had physical contact with a human or domestic animal (potential rabies exposure)
  • Wildlife that poses a threat to humans or domestic animals

Gloucester County Animal Control Officers DO NOT respond to situations when wildlife poses no threat to humans or domestic animals. These include the following:

We DO NOT respond to:

  • Wild animal Damage to gardens, flower beds, ornamental shrubs (Typically squirrels, deer, groundhogs, raccoons)
  • Wild animals in attics, basements, garages and storage sheds (Typically squirrels, raccoons, bats or snakes)
  • Wild animals inhabiting or frequenting populated areas (Typically squirrels, deer, foxes, opossums or skunks)
  • Wild animals living under decks, storage sheds, porches and the like (Typically groundhogs, skunks, raccoons or opossums)

Information regarding nuisance wildlife can be found on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Website. Or call the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 1-855-571-9003.

Tips on Living with Wildlife:

By taking precautions you can keep your family and pets safe while enjoying the beautiful wildlife we have here in Gloucester County.

  • Vaccinate pets against rabies and keep vaccinations up to date. Rabies vaccines are required by law for dogs and cats age 4 months or older.
  • Keep your distance from animals acting strangely whether they are wild, or, companion animals with an unknown owner. Report strange animal behavior or animal attacks to GCAC by calling 804-693-5290.
  • Prevent contact between pets and wildlife, especially at night. Walk pets on a leash and feed cats and dogs inside.
  • Eliminate possible sources of food for wildlife from your yard and keep trash can lids tightly closed.
  • Any animal bites to people or pets or sightings of animals suspected of having rabies should be reported to Animal Control or the Gloucester County Health Department at 804-693-6130.

When You See a Coyote

Remember, do not panic! Coyotes are normally afraid of humans. It will usually run off when it sees or smells you. If the coyote does not run off start waiving your arms and make allot of noise. If it still does not leave throw rocks or sticks at it. If this fails contact the Animal Control Office to get additional advice. Please remember that the land in our county was home to the wildlife before it was ours and it is our responsibility to protect and maintain a safe and peaceful environment for both our citizens and our wildlife!

Request Removal of Dead Animals Along Roadways:

For the removal of dead animals along roadways, contact the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) by calling 804-693-3070

Resources