6.3 Conservation Opportunities and Incentives
objectives (e.g., for landowners wishing to manage their property for wildlife, wildlife biolo- gists should be on hand to provide advice, in addition to foresters or agricultural extension agents). Protection measures that utilize existing regulatory frameworks to protect habitats and species should be incorporated where applicable. Wildlife species that can adapt to human development (e.g., foxes, some bats, Raccoons, Opossums, squirrels, deer, Canada Geese, Chimney Swifts, some snakes, and small rodents) are often the source of human-wildlife conficts. NCWRC has developed wildlife recommendations and guidelines on avoiding and controlling nuisance issues. Evaluation of the methods used for the removal of sensitive or tracked species (such as bats and some snakes) may be necessary to ensure the most appropriate handling of these spe- cies. Nuisance guidelines developed by USDA are a key source of information used by Commission outreach specialists handling wildlife damage-related inquiries (Hygnstrom et al. 1994) . Currently, North Carolina considers venomous reptiles, large constricting snakes, or crocodilians to be dangerous animals (see NCGS 14) . Regulations require owners to have a written safety protocol and escape recovery plan that includes emergency contact infor- mation, identifcation of the local animal control ofce, and frst aid procedures. Escapes must be reported to local law enforcement immediately. Specialized training is needed for law enforcement personnel, frst responders, and animal handlers who may encoun- ter dangerous or venomous animals as part of their work (e.g., animals that have escaped, are part of personal property seizures, or have been abandoned by the owners). Resources to support and coordinate emergency medical services, such as distribution and type of antivenom available, resources for exotic species identifcation, and facilities for temporary or long-term handling need to be identifed and funded. NCWRC ofers free education programs for hunters and anglers that cover ethics and responsibilities as well as conservation and wildlife management information. Wildlife enforcement ofcials work with local law enforcement, federal and state agencies, wildlife biologists, and others to investigate and prosecute illegal activities. Illegal activities can range from hunting outside of season limits or taking a larger harvest than allowed by bag or creel limits; holding wild animals in captivity without permits; capturing wild animals without appropriate collection permits; harassing or harming protected species; or setting artifcial lures or baits for animals and other unapproved harvest methods.
6.3.4.1 Strategies and Recommendations Outreach
• Target outreach and technical guidance to private landowners to help them under- stand the diferent types of assistance and management practices available, to get
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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