Nuisance Species

Beavers

Beavers can cause significant damage and flooding to agricultural and public lands. Beavers may be hunted or trapped all season long without a license, making special note of Section 40 of the Wildlife Act where no person shall hunt wildlife or discharge firearms on or over occupied lands, or enter on such lands for the purpose of doing so, without the consent of the owner or occupant.

Landcare staff are able to assist in non-destructive damn mitigation practices such as pond leveling devices and culvert blockage prevention. These coexistence tools prevent problems associated with beaver damming activity and provide an alternative that is more efficient and cost-effective. 

More information on such practices can be found through the Working with Beavers for Watershed Resiliency and Restoration website, and the Cost-Benefit Analysis of Beaver Co-Existence Tools fact sheet.

For further assistance please contact your local Alberta Fish & Wildlife Officer or the Alberta Trappers Association.

Wild Boar

Wild Boar is declared to be a pest where it is at large (not in captivity) in Alberta. Although it has been many years since Kneehill County has experienced any wild boar activity, please report any suspected wild boar sightings to the County office.

Skunks

Known for their foul odor and taste for eggs, skunks have been placed on the nuisance list due to their ability to carry rabies. Call a Fish and Wildlife Officer if you need specific advice on skunk problems on your property, or to discuss removal techniques.

beaver