Trapping and shooting opossums causing damage in Delaware | Opossum

Trapping and shooting opossums causing damage

On larger agricultural properties where opossums may be causing crop or orchard damage, trapping or hunting during regulated seasons may temporarily reduce populations and lessen damage. In some states (check your local regulations), landowners can trap or shoot opossums outside the season when they are causing damage.

Laws and regulations to be aware of

Regulations for Delaware

Nuisance Wildlife

Incorporated Cities or Towns. Within the limits of residential or commercial areas of incorporated cities or towns, or within residential or commercial structures, the following game animals may be controlled (killed) without a permit when they are causing damage: gray squirrel, raccoon, and opossum. Methods used to control said animals must be consistent with the laws of this State and the regulations of the Department and only live traps may be used (without a depredation permit) outside of established trapping seasons.

While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) where regulations may be more restrictive, especially as it applies to discharge of firearms, transport of animals or use of trapping equipment. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities.

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