Humane Wildlife Control in Athens-Clarke, GA
The Humane Wildlife Control Society recommends non-invasive solutions to resolve human-wildlife conflicts. This includes:
Determining if the issue needs to be addressed at all
Opting for preventative measures first
Opting for wildlife exclusion as opposed to trapping
If trapping is the only way to solve the problem do so humanely
The Humane Wildlife Control Society screens candidates prior to recommendation. Our process requires any company we recommend to meet the following criteria:
Is properly licensed in Georgia for wildlife control
Carries appropriate business licenses and insurance
Complies with all Georgia laws and regulations for wildlife control
Adheres to the humane principles listed above.
In Athens-Clarke, Georgia we recommend Humane Wildlife Removal Athens-Clarke for professional wildlife control services. This is a private company that charges for their services.
Contact Information:
Byram Wildlife Removal
678-809-6635
If you have any wildlife issues that can be handled by the state government agency for free, the Georgia Wildlife Commission can help.
State Contact Information: (706) 557-3333
The State Department of Agriculture may also be able to address your wildlife problem for no charge.
USDA Contact Information: (404) 656-3600
Humane Animal Control Guide: Athens-Clarke County, Georgia Introduction Legal Framework Athens-Clarke County Animal Services Ordinances regulating pet ownership, stray animals, and nuisance species. Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) laws for handling wildlife. Federal laws, including the Endangered Species Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Violations should be reported to Athens-Clarke County Animal Services or the Georgia DNR. Domestic Animal Control Stray and Feral Pets Report stray dogs and aggressive animals to Athens-Clarke County Animal Services at (706) 613-3540. Use humane trapping methods for stray cats and participate in Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. Do not feed feral dog packs—contact animal control for intervention. Pet Ownership Responsibilities Ensure all pets are licensed, vaccinated, and microchipped. Keep dogs leashed in public areas and prevent excessive barking. Spay/neuter pets to reduce overpopulation. Animal Cruelty Prevention Report neglect, abuse, or inhumane treatment immediately to local authorities. Provide adequate food, water, and shelter for all owned animals. Never leave pets unattended in hot or extreme weather conditions. Wildlife Management Nuisance Wildlife Do not feed wild animals, including deer, raccoons, and coyotes. Secure garbage and remove outdoor food sources to prevent conflicts. Use humane deterrents like motion-activated lights or fencing. Injured or Orphaned Wildlife Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before intervening. Avoid direct contact with injured wildlife, especially rabies-vector species like raccoons and bats. Never attempt to raise wild animals as pets—this is illegal and harmful. Venomous and Non-Venomous Snakes Do not kill snakes; they play a vital role in the ecosystem. If a snake is in a dangerous location, contact a professional removal service. Learn to identify local snake species to distinguish between venomous and harmless varieties. Livestock and Exotic Animals Residents must comply with zoning laws for keeping livestock or exotic pets. Proper fencing and enclosures are required to prevent escapes. Owners must provide adequate care to avoid neglect violations. Emergency Contacts Athens-Clarke County Animal Services: (706) 613-3540 Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR): (800) 241-4113 Local Wildlife Rehabilitators: Contact for injured wildlife assistance Poison Control (for animal poisoning cases): (800) 222-1222 Conclusion
Athens-Clarke County is home to various wildlife and domestic animals. Humane animal control is essential to maintaining public safety, preventing conflicts, and ensuring ethical treatment. This guide outlines best practices for residents, businesses, and local authorities in handling animal-related issues responsibly.
Animal control in Athens-Clarke County is governed by:
Humane animal control is a shared responsibility. By following legal requirements and ethical best practices, Athens-Clarke County residents can ensure a safe and respectful coexistence with both domestic and wild animals.
