The Michigan Department of Natural Resources wants to add more nuisance animals to the list of critters homeowners can kill without first obtaining a permit.
Currently, woodchucks, skunks, raccoons, and coyotes that are doing or about to do damage can be killed on private property without a written permit.
Update: Michigan DNR expands list of nuisance animals property owners can kill without a permit
The DNR is proposing adding beavers, cottontail rabbits, fox squirrels, gray squirrels, ground squirrels, muskrats, opossums, red squirrels, and weasels to that list.
The proposal would also clarify when species can be taken without a written permit. Currently, the text says they can be taken if “doing or about to do damage.” The proposed change would state if “doing or physically present where it could imminently cause damage.”
The DNR also proposes adding a definition for “damage.” It would define damage as physical harm to forest products, roads, dams, buildings, orchards, apiaries, livestock, and horticultural or agricultural crops.
The DNR also proposes adding more animals to the list of critters allowed to be trapped. It would allow the trapping of cottontail rabbits, fox squirrels, gray squirrels, and woodchucks with specific methods.
The Natural Resources Commission is expected to discuss nuisance regulations at its next meeting. That meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. on May 11, in Lansing. They do offer time for public comment. The full agenda can be found online, just click here.