Relocating Wildlife

Live trapping and relocating animals is often advertised as a humane solution to wildlife conflicts. In reality, it can actually be detrimental for the animal, it is not a true long-term solution, and in most cases, it is illegal.

PAWS does not recommend trapping and relocating a wild animal to solve problems. We are also not legally permitted to trap and relocate wild animals. We instead provide expert advice on how to humanely and effectively solve wildlife conflicts.

Hard on the animal

Relocated animals often struggle to survive in unfamiliar surroundings, have to compete with others of their species that are already established at the relocation site, and may potentially transport new diseases or parasites to an area in which they did not previously exist.

Not a long-term solution

If the attractants on the property where the animal was removed are still in place, it may only be a matter of time before another animal moves into the area. The only way to alleviate conflicts, prevent them from recurring, and to take the most humane route for the animal, is to change the conditions on your property that allowed the conflict to happen in the first place.

If you have more questions about trapping and relocating wildlife, contact PAWS Wildlife Center at 425.412.4040.

Learn more about living with wildlife and Washington State trapping laws on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website.