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snakecharmer · New Member

I have been getting raccoons in my yard lately that are tearing up trash bags and have even managed to get in my chicken run (which I thought was coon proof) on one occasion. I am not down with that so I ran out and bought a Gamo Varmint Hunter. I started to think that I better make sure its legal before I start offing the little creeps. I have done some net searching but not fount too much on the subject. I found where raccoons are considered fur bearers in KS and I am guessing that means they have a season? But if they are in my yard and making a general nuisance of themselves.....is it legal for me to dispatch them with extreme prejudice? I have a couple acre lot but am within the Kansas City, KS city limits.

Slavia · Moderator

It's legal to do so with a permit, and is legal with an airgun:
http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Other-Services/Law-Enforcement/Regulations/Wildlife-Damage-Control

(Download 115-16-05 and 115-16-06.)

The other question (that I can't answer) is if it's legal to discharge a pellet gun within the city limits.

sniper · Silver Status Member

likely no within city limits. your local sheriff's office can clarify.

slavia's post slid in just before mine. Wink

Bozo · Veteran Member

Definitely talk with the KSPD and find out the law. Some jurisdictions, when told about the depredation problem and your acreage, will say go ahead, just be safe and don't get caught (don't annoy the neighbors). It would be your choice then whether to chance it. I would not encourage anyone to perform illegal acts (and I know the forum does not, either), but many folks I know use the 3S rule (Shoot, Shovel, and Shut up) when faced with your problem.

Another possible solution (again, check with the KDWP for legality) would be to get a Havahart trap, catch the offender, and transport it to a location where it would be legal to shoot it, bearing in mind that it is illegal in many states to transport wildlife alive. DO NOT transport it somewhere and release it alive. You are only moving the problem animal to someone else's area, where it becomes someone else's problem. Studies have also shown that when released this way, many animals will travel miles to get back to it's home territory, where it will be harder to trap the second time.

Good luck; I know the problem you're having. I lost 22 out of 25 chickens one year to raccoons, and lots more over the years. My Sheridan Blue Streak has accounted for about 30 raccoons, plus a few more to powder burners. (I live way out in the sticks, well outside any city limits.)