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Wildlife Information

Problem Animal Control Agents

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About Problem Animal Control Agents

Use the map above to find individuals and affiliated businesses that have been granted Problem Animal Control (PAC) permits in accordance with 321 CMR 2.14.

These agents may harass, take, and destroy, or may release or liberate on site as stipulated in 321 CMR 2.14 (23) non-domesticated reptiles, birds, and mammals the actions of which have or are endangering the life and health of humans or domestic animals; damaging the property of a person, obstructing the reasonable and comfortable use of property by the owner or tenant thereof or otherwise producing such material annoyance, inconvenience, and discomfort that can reasonably be presumed to result in damage or hurt to persons or their property. The mere presence of wildlife does not constitute damage or injury.

PAC agents are authorized only in the handling of skunk, muskrat, raccoon, weasel, red fox, gray fox, porcupine, Norway rat, mice, voles, red, gray and flying squirrel, opossum, chipmunk, rabbit, woodchuck, snapping turtle, moles, pigeon, house sparrow, starling and certain species of bats.

Coyotes may be handled by licensed PAC agents provided the PAC agent has successfully completed a MassWildlife training and certification program specifically pertaining to coyotes. PAC agents must also follow certain reporting requirements after taking or attempting to take a coyote. This provision will become effective in 2008 when the training program is developed.

No other animals may be captured or handled by PAC agents.

Individuals with damage caused by beaver flooding must contact their local Board of Health for a determination and necessary permitting. Damage caused by migratory birds and other birds such as woodpeckers, which are protected under both state and federal law, require a permit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (413) 253-2403.

PAC permitees act on behalf of the landowner and are constrained by the same regulations regarding capture, release, transport and euthanasia (e.g. Animals captured by PAC agents may not be moved and released on other property). Fees may be charged for PAC services. If you as a property owner call on a PAC agent, he or she should not only handle your immediate situation but also provide information and suggestions which will prevent future wildlife problems.

Becoming a PAC Agent

In order to become a licensed Problem Animal Control agent, interested persons must:

  • Pass a written examination demonstrating knowledge of wildlife and habitat, handling and capturing techniques and animal welfare.
  • Successfully complete a Massachusetts trapper education training course
  • Possess the necessary licenses for use of traps and/or firearms.

Additionally, PAC agents who want to handle coyotes must successfully complete a training program in coyote hunting techniques which is planned to be developed and made available in 2008.

PAC Application form PDF icon -- Prospective applicants must complete this form.

For a packet of materials for PAC exam study, available for a fee, contact the MassWildlife Field Headquarters at (508) 389-6300 in Westborough, Massachusetts.

To enroll in a Trapper Education Course, contact MassWildlife's Hunter Education Program by filling out a Course Notification form or calling the Program office in Westminster at (978) 632-7648.

Forms below are only for use by licensed PAC agents.

PAC Permit Renewal Form PDF icon -- PAC permits are valid for the calendar year in which they were issued. PAC permit must be renewed annually by January 31.

PAC Annual Report Form PDF icon -- A required annual summary of activities due by January 31 of the year following the summary. MassWildlife request that the annual report be included with a permit renewal form.