Statewide Nonprotected Wildlife
Species not protected by law
The following species are not protected by law because they are non-native invasive populations with potential to damage property, pose a human health risk, and have detrimental effects on native wildlife.
- House (English) Sparrow
European Starling
Rock Pigeon
Nutria
Species deemed destructive
The following species are deemed destructive to property and may pose a safety or health risk to people, livestock, and other native wildlife.
Manner & Means for Capture & Dispatch of Nonprotected Species
Landowners may use the following methods:
- Any weapon and ammunition legal for taking big game and small game during daylight hours
only. - Live traps with bait. Bait may not be used during big game hunting seasons without an exemption from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. All targeted animals must be dispatched before removal from trap.
- Additional methods may be authorized by obtaining an exemption from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. These exemptions may include:
- The use of dogs as part of the experimental eradication program in Overton, Fentress, Cumberland, and Pickett counties. Dogs may not be used during November or December.
- Shooting at night with the aid of artificial light, shooting over bait during big game season, or any other methods as approved by TWRA.
- Possession or transportation of live wild-appearing hogs without documentation from the
Tennessee Department of Agriculture indicating such swine originated from a legal captive
source is prohibited.
