In the spring of 2010, two raccoons broke into my attic crawl space through an air vent. I trapped one live and the next day phoned 3-1-1 who put me in contact with NYC Animal Care and Control. They told me that they could not do anything and advised me to release it “in a wooded area somewhere.” I found out that it is illegal to relocate wildlife in New York State.
Here is the law: N.Y. ENVTL. CONSERV. §11-0511 – Envtl. Conserv. Possession and transportation of wildlife
No person shall, except under a license or permit first obtained from the department containing the prominent warning notice specified in subdivision nine of section 11-0917 of this article, possess, transport or cause to be transported, imported or exported any live wolf, wolfdog, coyote, coydog, fox, skunk, venomous reptile or raccoon, endangered species designated pursuant to section 11-0535 hereof, species named in section 11-0536 or other species of native or non-native live wildlife or fish where the department finds that possession, transportation, importation or exportation of such species of wildlife or fish would present a danger to the health or welfare of the people of the state, an individual resident or indigenous fish or wildlife population.
Last year, NYC Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley along with other councilmembers, sponsored a bill, Intro 0319-2010, which directs the NYC Department of Health to humanely trap problem raccoons and turn them over to the NYC Department of Parks to relocate them. This bill has been stuck in the NYC Council’s Health Committee.
Jerry Wind, President
Bellerose Hillside Civic Association
Board Member, Community Board 13Q
