With the spread of urbanization and the return of many formerly endangered species, the need for qualified animal damage control professionals has grown. Here is a broad outline of steps to take by those considering a career in this exciting field:
1. Make sure that you understand the skills needed to perform wildlife control services effectively. Visit Getting Started as a NWCO for a listing of skills.
2. Contact your state's Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Some states call them Department of Natural Resources. Whatever your state calls the agency, search for the one that handles fur trapping. Check the links below.
3. Ask the agency for information regarding nuisance wildlife control operators or animal damage trapping. Some states call these people Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators (NWCO; pronounced "Newco"). Other states call them Problem Animal Controllers or Nuisance Trappers. While some states don't have any regulations at this time, most are requiring applicants to take their Trapper Education Class. Some require additional training.
4. Determine if you want to work for yourself or for someone else.
5. If you want to work for yourself, get some training. “The Best Practices Manual” is an excellent resource for beginning wildlife control operators. Visit NWCO Manual to obtain this free manual.
6. There are a number of state, regional, and national conferences and workshops on this topic. Attending one will give you a real eye-opener about how the profession works.
7. There are some publications that regularly have articles about this profession. These include, but are not limited to, Wildlife Control Technology, The Trapper and Predator Caller, and Pest Control Technology.
8. Finally, there are state and national organizations that focus on this profession. On the national level, the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) is the best known. Check out its Web site at: NWCOA.
Resources: (online)
NWCO Vendor Listings
