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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
NWCOA NEWS
Expo issue / December 2012
WILDLIFE CONTROL
TRAINING:
Getting the Most Out of the Expo
FEBRUARY 14-16, 2013
HARRAH’S HOTEL & CASINO
TUNICA, MISSISSIPPI
To make your hotel reservations, call 866-635-7095
and mention the "Wildlife Expo" to receive the group rate of
$62 per night (Sunday - Thursday)
and $119 per night (Friday and Saturday)
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CWCP STATUS:
Do you have what it takes?
THE STAGES OF COYOTE
AGGRESSION
18
AVMA Draft Guidelines on
Euthanasia
FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK:
The Wildlife Expo -- Gain The Competitive Edge
The number one reason members join NWCOA is to gain actual working knowledge of how
to run a WCO business successfully, while increasing the level of professionalism in the
industry. To that end, there is no single better reason to make certain you attend the
upcoming Wildlife Expo. This year the Wildlife Expo starts on February 14th and is going to
be held at Harrah’s Hotel and Casino in Tunica, Mississippi. Attendees will find the Wildlife
Expo one of the most rewarding and worthwhile experiences of the year, both personally and
professionally. The event includes a dynamic list of industry-relevant speaker sessions, a
great trade show and, of course, NWCOA’s Annual Dinner Banquet. Also available this
year, are four optional educational courses, which you can ‘add on’ to make the most your
Wildlife Expo experience. These courses are offered for those of you looking to hone your
skills and excel in specific wildlife control situations. Taught by instructors with in the field
experience, you won’t find a better wildlife control learning environment. Mark your
Gregg Schumaker, NWCOA President
calendars and purchase your registration now. Don’t miss out on THE wildlife
and owner of Wildlife Management
control event of the year, that makes being a NWCOA member so worthwhile.
and Nuisance Removal of Michigan
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK: You Don’t Know Everything
I once met a wildlife control
operator and suggested he
attend a wildlife control
conference. He responded that
he wouldn’t be going because
he had been performing wildlife
control work for years and
didn’t think he would learn
anything. As I recall, I didn’t
say much in response because if
I said what I was thinking, he
would have been quite
offended.
Unfortunately, I have met
others who exhibit similar
attitudes. The fact is, even if we
assume you won’t “learn”
anything new or useful,
conventions provide more than
just education. Networking is a
critical element of the
convention experience. Your
contacts can provide you much
needed advice for situations
that inevitably come up during
the year. You know, when you
have run out of ideas about
how to trap that educated
raccoon or you need some
insight on how to quote a new
type of service. How do you
put a price on that kind of
information?
Fortunately, the Wildlife Expo
provides more than networking
opportunities. I am confident
that even the most experienced
professional will find
presentations useful for their
business. So if you want to
improve your business acumen
than make plans to join us in
Mississippi. You’ll be glad you
did.
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again.
Editor-in-Chief:
Stephen Vantassel, CWCP, ACP,
MNI
Send article ideas, questions, and
photos to newsletter@nwcoa.com
FROM THE EXPERTS: Favorite Pocket Tool
iPhone -- Kevin Cornwell, CWCP, Cornwell’s Wildlife
High-end pocket camera –
Scott Conley, Conley’s Wildlife Control
A good multi-tool, a small, simple clip knife and a mini tape measure.
-- Dave Schmidt, CWCP, ACP, ALL OUT Wildlife Control, LLC
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
LOOKING FOR LINKS TO PLAN YOUR WILDLIFE EXPO
EXPERIENCE? TRY THESE:
Harrah’s Hotel & Casino:
1.866.635.7095
www.harrahstunica.com
Mention the WILDLIFE EXPO to get the special room rate!
Tunica Mississippi Visitors Site:
www.tunicatravel.com
Airports:
Tunica: www.tunicaairport.com/home
Memphis: www.mscaa.com
Willows Sporting Clays & Hunting Club:
http://www.caesars.com/willows/#page=home
Mack’s Prairie Paw, America’s Premier Waterfowl Outfitter:
www.mackspw.com
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
2013 WILDLIFE EXPO: Schedule of Events
11am – 6.30 pm
Wildlife Expo Registration
5pm – 6.30pm
Welcome Reception & Exhibits
7am – 5pm
Wildlife Expo Registration
7am – 8.30pm
Continental Breakfast & Exhibits
8.30 am – 10am
Opening Session: America’s Nature Wars: Wildlife Comeback v Denature People
– Jim Sterba, author Nature Wars: The Incredible Story of Wildlife Comebacks
10.15am – 11.15am
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
The Latest and Greatest in Wildlife Control Supplies – Alan Huot, Wildlife Control Supplies
Understanding Building Construction Types for Finding and Removing Wildlife – Bill Rodgers, City
of Hattiesburg
Wildlife 101: Addressing Wildlife Damage at the Ground Level – John Adcock, Adcock’s Trapping
Service (invited)
11.30 am – 12.30pm
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Moisture Control in Crawl Spaces – Billy Tesh, Pest Management Systems
Large Urban Rodents – Don La Fountain, Integrated Wildlife Control
Airport Wildlife – Cedy Basciuska, Loemacres Wildlife Management
12.30pm – 1.45pm
Lunch & Exhibits – Sponsored by CounterCulture
1.45pm – 2.45pm
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Aquaculture – Jimmy Avery (invited), Thad Cochran, National Warmwater Aquaculture
Safety: What You Need to Know – Tom Riley, All in One Wildlife & Pest Management
Wildlife 101: Pricing Bird Jobs – Jason Reger, Blue Ridge Wildlife Management
3pm – 4pm
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Bats: White Nose Syndrome – Jonathan Reichard, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Skunks: Biology, Removal and More – Gregg Schumaker, Wildlife Management & Nuisance Removal
4pm – 4.30pm
Refreshment Break & Exhibits
4.30pm – 5.30pm
Regulatory Update: Hot Issues Facing the Wildlife Industry – Gene Harrington, National Pest
7.30am – 4pm
Wildlife Expo Registration
8am – 9am
Continental Breakfast & Exhibits
9am – 10am
Human Resources: Hiring/Firing/Interviewing
10.15am-11.15am
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Management Association
Habitat Manipulation Techniques – Drew Lanham PhD, Clemson University (invited)
Raccoons – Charles Holt, Advantage Wildlife Removal; John Adcock (invited)
How Do I Get There Safely? Scaffolding Safety – Keith Kirkland, Associated Scaffolding (invited)
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NWCOA NEWS
11.30am – 12.30pm
DECEMBER 2012
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Chimney Caps, Covers and Vent Screens: Sales Techniques – Denny Pogue, HY-C Company
Remediation / Attic Clean-Up – Dave Schultz (invited)
Technology for the Business of Wildlife – Andy Deering, ServicePro.net
12.30pm – 2pm
Lunch & Exhibits
2pm – 3pm
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Parasites: Fleas, Bat Bugs, Bird Mites – Dr Rebecca Baldwin, University of Florida
Chemical Immobilization –
Birds in Big Box Stores – Scott Steckel, Varment Guard; Environmental Services Inc
3.15pm – 4.15pm
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Snake Capture and Handling Techniques, Control Methods – Dave Milliken, Milliken Farms Wildlife
Control
Use of Falcons for Wildlife Control – Dan Frankian, Hawkeye Bird Control Inc.
Structural Exclusion Techniques – Charles Holt, Advantage Wildlife Removal
4.30pm – 5.30pm
NWCOA General Membership Meeting
7.30pm – 11pm
Final Night Banquet & NWCOA Awards Ceremony – Sponsored by WCS
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NWCOA NEWS
February 13 – 14 8 am – 5pm
NWCOA Certified Basic Wil dlife
Operator Training Course
Trains new and current WCOs that perform wildlife
management services in or on residential and commercial
properties. This is a 2-day hands on classroom style training
course, taught by Master NWCOA® and Certified
NWCOA® Instructors. Topics include bats, birds, squirrels
and other commonly encountered problem species; animal
biology, animal handling, euthanasia, inspection, safety and
more. Safeguard®, the course sponsor, has graciously
donated demonstration products and materials for the
instructors use during the course. These items will be given
away as door prizes to the attendees once the instruction is
finished. Upon successful completion of this course and a
test, the WCO will receive a certificate of completion, use of
logo mark in marketing materials and become a Certified
Basic Wildlife Control Operator.
Course Fees: NWCOA Member $300 / Non-Member $350
DECEMBER 2012
February 14 8 am – 5pm
Basic Wildlife Disease Certificati on
The NWCOA Basic Wildlife Disease Technician Course
will be offered due to the increased concerns that nuisance
wildlife control operators and their clientele have about
wildlife disease and zoonoses. Often, the first concern of a
WCO or homeowner is the risk of disease from either
contact with the species or indirectly through their
droppings, urine, parasites or nesting materials. This
course is a 1-day, classroom style training course taught by
Certified NWCOA® Instructors. Upon successful
completion of this course and successful passing of a test,
the WCO will become NWCOA Basic Wildlife Disease
Technician.
Course Fees: NWCOA Member $150/ Non-Member $175
Certification Value: 8 NWCOA Continuing Education Units
February 17 8 am – 5pm
NWCOA Bat Standards Compliant
Training Course
Certification Value: 16 NWCOA Continuing Education Units
February 13 8 am – 5pm
Bird Barrier America Inc Certification
Training Course
Are you getting your share of the multi-million dollar bird
control business? Do you want to gain the confidence to
perform bird control work? Droppings, nest materials and
ecto-parasites pose serious threats to structures and the
people who occupy them. The Bird Barrier® Inc
certification training course will help you determine which
bird control product is suited for solving any bird problem
and how to install that product on your client’s property.
Upon successful completion of this course the WCO will
become a Bird Barrier® Certified Installer and receive a
certificate of completion.
Course Fees: NWCOA Member $150 / Non-Member $175
Certification Value: 8 NWCOA Continuing Education Units
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THE NWCOA® Bat Standards will be offered by
NWCOA® to aid in the survival and future of bats in
North America, as well as to educate those who perform
bat exclusion services in residential and commercial
structures. This course is a 1-day classroom style training
course taught by Certified NWCOA® Instructors. Upon
successful completion of this course and successful passing
of a test, the WCO will become NWCOA® Bat Standards
Compliant. Students will also receive a certificate of
completion, have use of the logo mark in marketing
materials and will be listed on the NWCOA® Website.
Course Fees: NWCOA Member $150 / Non-Member $175
Certification Value: 8 NWCOA Continuing Education Units
Official Course Sponsor:
Certified Professional Training Courses:
Make the Most of Your
Wildlife Expo Experience!
www.npmapestworld.org/events
NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
CWCP STATUS: Do You Have What It Takes?
Every Industry Has Its Own Way of Recognizing The Top Professionals in Their Field –
NWCOA has the Certified Wildlife Control Professional. Uniquely designed to accredit and acknowledge
those individuals who have obtained a level of knowledge and experience that sets them apart from the rest
of the pack, the designation of CWCP has become a well recognized and highly desired level of
professionalism in wildlife control today. Do you have what it takes to become a CWCP? Find out by
going to www.nwcoa.com and clicking on the CWCP link. There you can find the requirements and
applications to help you see if becoming a Certified Wildlife Control Professional is for you. Specific
questions can also be emailed to Kevin Cornwell, CWCP Director at: CWCP@nwcoa.com
Harrah’s Hotel & Casino
The Harrah's Tunica Casino resort is made up of three luxury hotel towers and the Mid-South RV
Park. Harrah's Tunica offers a 140,000 square feet of exciting casino games, which includes at least
2,000 slots. This casino resort offers the full service Bellissimo Spa & Salon, four swimming pools, one
of which is indoor, a choice of mouthwatering eateries, tennis courts, and the Willows Sporting Clays
& Hunting Center.
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
Willows Sporting Clay & Hunting Club
DINING OPTIONS INCLUDE:
Paula Deen Buffet
Food Network Star Paula Deen brings her one-of-a kind recipes and down-home attitude
to a new dining experience with the Paula Deen Buffet at Harrah's Tunica.
South Porch Café
Connected to the Paula Deen Buffet, the South Porch Café has a delightful assortment of
pies, pastries, breakfast plates and hearty comfort food to keep you kickin' into the wee
hours.
AND
Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill
Leave it to country music legend Toby Keith
to create a restaurant that offers great food and more of the best live music in Tunica.
’37 at Harrah’s Tunica
Whether it's a fabulous night out with friends or your special someone,
‘37 offers everything you want, including delectable West Coast cuisine, all in one place.
Harrah’s Event Center Tunica
The Harrah’s Event Center offers stellar headliner entertainment,
so get ready for electrifying entertainment!
Sphere Bar at Harrah’s Tunica
In the middle of all the action at Harrah’s Tunica is Sphere,
where excitement comes full circle.
The Funny Bone
Get loose and laugh it up at the Funny Bone Comedy Club,
with hilarious live acts Wednesdays through Sundays.
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
HY-C COMPANY:
Brian Jacobson
When did you start your business?
Who were/are your mentors?
I am the fourth generation in our business. Alan Hisey
founded the company in 1947.
My father, Bob Jacobson, who built this business, has
been my primary mentor. In addition, Gary Kimber,
with 41 years at HY-C, and Mike Johnson, with 36
years at HY-C, have both shared a wealth of
knowledge with me.
Why did you start your business?
My great grandfather was a roofer and started making
chimney covers as an add-on service. As demand
developed over the decades, manufacturing became the
focus and allowed for a stand-alone sustainable business.
Describe your market/service area and the
products/services (including animals) you serve/provide.
Our market is mainly the continental United States
where we provide nuisance wildlife exclusion products,
but our market is growing internationally as well.
What was/is your greatest challenge?
Staying organized to take advantage of all of the
opportunities in this diverse market.
What was your greatest triumph?
Personal: Finishing an Ironman Triathlon and I have
twins due this fall.
Business: Developing and expanding HY-C’s exclusion
product line into our fastest growing sector.
What was your most interesting business travel
destination?
Pest World in Hawaii, NWCOA in New Orleans, WCT
in Las Vegas!
How has your membership in NWCOA benefited you?
What do you offer NWCOA and its members?
The association has opened doors to the possibilities
in the nuisance wildlife exclusion area. New product
innovations at HY-C have sprung out of ideas and
conversations with the amazing people in our
industry.
Where do you see the industry going in the next few
years?
It’s us vs. the raccoons – and I think that so far it’s a
draw, so we are going to have to keep on pushing
back!
Where do you see your company growing in the next
few years?
New products and new relationships will develop
through our industry’s trade shows. We are doubling
down on this sector of our business. We see the pest
guys crossing over into the wildlife sector as they see
the growth opportunities here.
Brian Jacobson, National Accounts Manager
HY-C Company LLC
bjacobson@hy-c.com
(314) 566-2122 cell -- (314) 241-1214 office
10950 Linpage Place, Saint Louis, Missouri 63132
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
New Product Announcements
This is the newest addition to the Comstock Custom Cage line of traps. The new 12 x 12 x 36 will
work hand in hand with the 9 x 11 and 12 x 18 cage traps. This trap also can be used for beaver, otter,
muskrat, raccoon, etc.
It sells for $109 and is made with 1 x 1 inch wire mesh. Just like all of the Comstock cages this highly
versatile trap functions in any position, sideways, upside down, vertically with it's double power doors
and wire trigger, can be set as a single door if desired.
Comstock Custom Cage, LLC
125 Washburn Road
Gansevoort, NY 12831
518-792-2371
www.comstockcustomcage.com
Have a new product you would like to announce to NWCOA
Members? Send details and product images (300 dpi) to
newsletter@nwcoa.com
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
NATIONAL WILDLIFE CONTROL OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
☐ New Member
☐ Renewal
Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Company: _________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ________________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip: __________________
Phone: ___________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________
E-mail: ____________________________________________ Website: _______________________________________
☐
Professional Wildlife Control Operator Member
$250 annual dues
☐
Associate Wildlife Control Operator Member
$125 annual dues
☐
Supporting Wildlife Control Operator Member
$50 annual dues
☐
Vendor Member
$500 annual dues
☐
Supporting Vendor Member
$350 annual dues
NEW Professional or Associate Members, who join between January 1st and June 30th will pay the full dues rate.
NEW Professional or Associate Members, joining between July 1 st and December 31st, will pay one half of the dues
rate. RENEWALS are NOT subject to prorated dues; and RENEWALS not paid by March 1st of the renewing year will
be placed on inactive status and lose all membership privileges
☐VISA
☐ MASTERCARD
☐ DISCOVER
CREDIT CARD #:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
EXPIRATION DATE: ___________________________ 3 DIGIT CODE:______________
NAME ON CARD: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
BILLING MAILING ADDRESS:____________________________________________________________________________________________
SIGNED:______________________________________________________________________________________ DATED:______________________
MAIL CHECKS MADE PAYABLE TO “NWCOA” TO:
NWCOA, PO BOX 3313, FAIRFAX VA 22038-3313
DUE DATE FOR RENEWAL MEMBERSHIPS: TO BE PAID BY JANUARY 1ST, 2013
CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP:
Pay dues as set by the Board and meet any necessary insurance requirements.
Be active and provide input into the workings and activities of the Association.
Members will never represent themselves as on official voice of the Association unless approved by the Governing Board
to represent the Association.
Members must read, understand and support the NWCOA Statement to Support Scientific Wildlife Population
Management.”
Members must accept and agree to the NWCOA Code of Ethics.
Professional memberships must include proof of liability insurance coverage with application or renew to be considered
for membership.
NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
NWCOA Code of Ethics
The National Wildlife Control Operators Association wholeheartedly endorses the following Code of Ethics and encourages its members
to strive in the application of the principles embodied in this Code in their professional life as a Commercial Wildlife Control Operator.
1.
2.
3.
4.
I will strive to follow all laws and regulations pertaining to wildlife damage management.
I ascribe to a professional code of conduct that embodies the traits of honesty, sincerity and dedication.
I will show exceptionally high levels of concern and respect for people, property and wildlife.
I will promote the understanding and appreciation of the many values of wildlife and scientific wildlife management, as well as
an appreciation for the economic and health concerns of people adversely affected by wildlife.
5. I will be sensitive to the various viewpoints of wildlife damage management.
6. I will provide expertise on managing wildlife damage to my clientele upon request, within the limits of my experience, ability
and legal authority.
7. I will promote competence and present an image worthy of the profession by supporting high standards of education,
employment and performance.
8. I will strive to broaden my knowledge, skills and abilities to advance the practice of commercial wildlife damage management.
9. I will, in good faith, select new or time proven methods for resolving wildlife damage conflicts and give due consideration to
humaneness, selectivity, effectiveness and practicality.
10. I will treat my competition and clientele in a courteous manner and in accordance with honorable business practices.
11. I will encourage, through word and through deed, all Commercial Wildlife Control Operators to adhere to this code and to
participate in state associations of Commercial Wildlife Control Operators.
Membership Descriptions
Professional WCO Members shall be Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators, Wildlife Damage Managers, Pest Control
Operators, Nuisance Trappers, Predator Control Trappers, individuals employed by government agencies working in
wildlife management and wildlife damage management that choose to join NWCOA as a professional wildlife control
operator. Professional WCO members shall receive the NWCOA newsletter, have the option to be listed on the National
Membership Website Directory, have access to the NWCOA message center, have voting privileges and may hold elected
office.
Associate WCO Members shall be Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators, Wildlife Damage Managers, Pest Control
Operators, Nuisance Trappers, Predator Control Trappers, individuals employed by government agencies working in
wildlife management and wildlife damage management that choose to join NWCOA as a professional wildlife control
operator. Associate WCO membership is geared toward new, start-up WCO and part-time WCO businesses. Associate
members shall not have voting privileges and may not hold elected office.
Supporting WCO Members shall be those that choose to join NWCOA as a supporter of NWCOA. Supporting members
shall receive the NWCOA newsletter, and have access to the NWCOA message center. Supporting members shall NOT
qualify for the NWCOA insurance program, listing on the National Membership Website Directory, nor voting privileges.
Vendor Members shall be those for profit individuals, partnerships, unincorporated associations, corporations, and/ or
suppliers, which manufactures or supplies products, equipment and/or other materials or services to the wildlife
management industry that choose to join NWCOA as a vendor. Vendor members can request two (2) mailing lists, which
may include name, address and emails of the NWCOA membership per year. Vendor members shall be listed in and receive
the NWCOA newsletter, have access to the NWCOA message center may receive discounts on advertising, and be listed on
the NWCOA website as a Vendor member.
Supporting Vendor Members shall be those that choose to join NWCOA as a supporter of NWCOA. Supporting Members
shall receive the NWCOA newsletter, and have access to the NWCOA message center. Supporting members shall NOT
qualify for the NWCOA insurance program, listing on the National Membership Website Directory, nor voting privileges.
Information only members shall consist of honorary members, Government agencies, and affiliate groups as determined by
the Governing Board. Information only members shall receive the NWCOA newsletter. Information only members will not
be listed on the National Membership Website Directory, have access to the NWCOA message center, nor shall they have
voting privileges.
***Members called to military service shall have their dues waived while serving on active duty.
It shall be the responsibility of the member to notify NWCOA of their military deployment***
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
NWCOA PROFESSIONAL ACHEIVEMENT AWARDS
We’re Looking for Wildlife Control Leaders!
OFFICIAL NOMINATION FORM
To make a nomination, send nomination form (email submissions preferred) and supporting documents to:
EMAIL:
maureenlederer@gmail.com -or-
MAIL:
NWCOA Awards Committee, PO Box 3313, Fairfax VA 22038-3313
Deadline for receiving applications is January 7, 2013
NOMINATION INSTRUCTIONS
1.
Fill out Official Nomination Form completely. Incomplete nomination forms will not be considered.
2.
Attach a list of achievements or nomination essay, explaining why the nominee deserves the award. Attach
nominee’s resume (if available) and information about the nominee’s affiliations, past recognitions, and other
references for substantiation. Full documentation is required by the Awards Committee—the only information the
Awards Committee will have is what you provide. Please be particular about the specific reasons for which the
nomination is based.
3.
Nominees may be nominated for more than one category, but require a separate nomination form for each award
category. Multiple copies of supporting materials are not necessary.
Award Category* ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
NOMINEE
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
C/S/Zip
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Email
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Phone
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Nominated by
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
C/S/Zip
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Email
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Phone
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
*The Awards Committee reserves the right to place nominations in the appropriate categories as the case may arise.
In the case of insufficient nominations in any category the Awards Committee reserves the right not to name a category winner.
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
NWCOA PROFESSIONAL ACHEIVEMENT AWARD CATEGORIES
NWCOA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR For overall outstanding efforts and achievements on behalf of the industry
-orThe most significant contribution to the cause of the wildlife damage industry
-orThe most significant contribution toward the solution of a major wildlife damage problem during 2012.
This effort can be in any field of wildlife damage management.
NWCOA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR For overall outstanding efforts and achievements on behalf of the NWCOA by providing the most
significant volunteer contributions to NWCOA through mentoring, public participation, public
education, assistance, industry training or guidance to the industry.
NWCOA WILDLIFE DAMAGE EDUCATOR / RESEARCHER OF THE YEAR For the outstanding wildlife damage education / research effort by an individual or organization.
The recipient of this award should have applied and demonstrated wildlife damage management
methods to the betterment or effectiveness of the industry
-orConducted research to support industry positions, standards, policies, practices or techniques.
NWCOA WILDLIFE INDUSTRY VENDOR / INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR For outstanding effort by any firm, business, or individual that has displayed an unwavering
commitment to the wildlife damage management industry through service, integrity, innovation, or
other business practices that have enhanced or improved the industry’s ability to serve the public.
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NWCOA NEWS
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DECEMBER 2012
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NATIONAL!WILDLIFE!CONTROL!OPERATORS!ASSOCIATION!!PO!BOX!3313!!FAIRFAX!VA!22038!
COMPETENCE!!INTEGRITY!SERVICE!
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GOVERNING BOARD
President
Gregg Schumaker
Wildlife Mgmt & Nuisance Removal
PO Box 321
Conway, MI 49722
231-539-7256
president@nwcoa.com
Vice President
Dixon Herman CWCP
Blue Ridge Wildlife Control
PO Box 9607
Hickory, NC 28603
828-217-2533
vicepresident@nwcoa.com
Secretary
Charles Parker
Parker Wildlife Control
1509 Maine Avenue
Kenner, LA 70062
504-338-7517
secretary@nwcoa.com
Treasurer
Mike Tucker, CWCP
Wildlife Removal Services
3500 W 108th Street
Bloomington, MN 55431-3603
952-884-3707
treasurer@nwcoa.com
Eastern Director
Joe Felegi
Fort Lauderdale, FL
800-Critter
easterndirector@nwcoa.com
Western Director
Mike Ogden, CWCP
Dengo Wildlife Control
PO Box 5634
Boise, ID 83705-5634
208-869-9055
westerndirector@nwcoa.com
Central Director
Vikki Rawe
Tri-State Wildlife Management
PO Box 674
Alexandria, KY 41001-0674
895-635-0037
centraldirector@nwcoa.com
At Large Director
Foreign and U.S. Territories
Tony DeNicola
White Buffalo Inc.
26 Davison Rd
Moodus, CT 06469
860-790-0224
atlargedirector@nwcoa.com!
General Organizer
Charles Holt
Advantage Wildlife Removal
1203 Ten Mile Rd
New Richmond, OH 45157
513-553-1888
generalorganizer@nwcoa.com
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
NWCOA Statement to Support Scientific Wildlife Population Management
The National Wildlife Control Operators Association supports sound, scientific wildlife management
principles including, but not limited to: hunting, trapping, and any other lethal population control
measures in accordance with Federal, State and local regulations.
NWCOA VENDOR MEMBERS
Bird B Gone
949.472.3122
www.birdbgone.com
Bird Barrier America, Inc.
800.503.5444
www.birdbarrier.com
Christian Baker Co.
717.761.4712
www.buybestins.com
Fields Development and Supply, LLC.
614.835.0878
www.fieldsdevsupply.com
HY-C Company, Inc.
314.241.1214
www.hyccompany.com
Kness Manufacturing Co., Inc.
641.932.7846
www.kness.com
KRC Industries
614.986.7429
www.krcindustries.com
New Frequency, Inc.
678.388.2970 x 5130
www.newfrequency.com
Nixalite of America, Inc.
309.755.8771
www.nixalite.com
PCT Media Group
800.456.0707
www.pctonline.com
Pest Control Insulation Systems
706.677.4050
www.tapinsulation.com
Professional Wildlife Control Magazine
985.710.2789
www.anytimewildlifecontrol.com/
pwcm-magazine
Reed-Joseph International Co.
800.647.5554
www.reedjoseph.com
Safeguard Products, Inc.
800.433.1819 x12
www.safeguardproducts.com
Tomahawk Live Trap Company
715.356.4600
www.livetrap.com
Tru-Catch Traps
800.247.6132
www.trucatchtraps.com
Wildlife Control Supplies, LLC.
877.684.7262
www.wildlifecontrolsupplies.com
Wildlife Management Supplies
231.947.2400
www.discountwildlifesupplies.com
Yodle
877.276.5104
www.yodle.com
BE SURE TO SUPPORT OUR VENDOR MEMBERS
16
1
2
NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
Important Business Ratios
With business slowing down and the calendar year coming to a close, now is the time to analyze the
financial health of your business. Net-Profit Margins are one of the most important ratios you can use
to evaluate your business. Using your Income Statement from your accounting software, obtain your
total sales (income) as well as total costs (including cost of goods and services).
Step 1. Calculate Net Income by subtracting total costs (expenses) from total sales (revenue).
Step 2. Calculate your Net Profit Margin by dividing Net Income by total sales (revenue).
CALCULATE
YOUR NET
PROFIT
MARGIN BY
DIVIDING NET
INCOME BY
TOTAL SALES
(REVENUE)
STEP 3
CALCULATE
NET INCOME
BY
SUBSTRATING
TOTAL COSTS
(EXPENSES)
FROM TOTAL
SALES
(REVENUE)
STEP TWO
STEP 1
Step 3. Multiply the answer by 100 to obtain the percentage.
MULTIPLY
THE ANSWER
BY 100 TO
OBTAIN THE
PERCENTAGE
The larger the percentage the better. Compare your results from quarter to quarter, or year to year, to
obtain a trend. You can increase your Net Profit Margin in two ways: reduction in costs and increasing
sales. Evaluate your company’s activities to determine how you can increase your Net Profit Margin.
References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Profit_margin
http://www.investopedia.com/university/ratios/profitability-indicator/ratio1.asp#axzz2BgGla8fU
http://beginnersinvest.about.com/od/incomestatementanalysis/a/income-statement-analysis.htm
Useful Websites
Need a technical/computer related job done on the cheap? Fiverr.com lists people willing to do a wide
array of things for only 5 dollars.
http://fiverr.com/
Site is full of how-to articles useful for WCOs wanting to learn more about the carpentry and repair side
of the business.
http://www.handyman.com/inquiries/inquiry-comment/inquiry-comment-confirm
17
NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
The following article was requested by a NWCOA Member. Have a question you would like answered? Or a topic
you would like to see covered? Send your questions and comments to newsletter@nwcoa.com
The Stages of Coyote Aggression
With coyotes (Canis latrans) now existent in almost the entire continental U.S., clients may be scared.
One of the greatest challenges for wildlife control operators is when it is appropriate to say that an
animal is truly dangerous. Thankfully, Rex Baker outlined the stages of coyote aggression. This
progression of behaviors has been adopted for use in evaluating problem coyote complaints and
deciding thresholds for management actions in Texas (see Farrar 2007), New York, and elsewhere.
Typically, most management entities consider taking some sort of action to remove the offending
coyote(s) or otherwise reduce the risk to human safety once stages 4 or 5 are reached.
I present the behavioral stages, in their usual order of occurrence:
1. An increase in observing coyotes on streets and in yards at night.
2. An increase in coyotes approaching adults
and/or taking pets at night.
3. Early morning and late afternoon daylight
observance of coyotes on streets and in
parks and yards.
4. Daylight observance of coyotes chasing or
taking pets.
5. Coyotes attacking and taking pets on leash
or in close proximity to their owners;
coyotes chasing joggers, bicyclists, and
Associated Press
other adults.
6. Coyotes seen in and around children’s play areas, school grounds, and parks in mid-day.
7. Coyotes acting aggressively toward adults during mid-day”
Source: Schmidt, Robert H., & Timm, Robert M. (2007). Bad Dogs: Why Do Coyotes and Other Canids Become Unruly?
In D. L. Nolte, W. M. Arjo & D. H. Stalman (Eds.), Proceedings of the 12th Wildlife Damage Management Conference
(pp. 287-302): Wildlife Damage Management Working Group – Wildlife Society October 1998.
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
Editor’s Note: The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is in the process of revising its euthanasia
guidelines (the last version was 2007). You can read the draft guidelines online at
https://www.avma.org/KB/Policies/Pages/aw-policies-open-for-comment.aspx
The Wildlife Damage Management Working Group of the Wildlife Society provided comments on the Draft
2011 AVMA Guidelines. I have provided an edited version of those submitted comments below.
Draft: 2011 AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia Animal Damage Management Working Group
Review and Comments
Overall Impressions: The draft AVMA Guidelines are much improved over earlier editions. It is obvious that a wide variety of
experts were consulted. The document specifically recognizes the unique circumstances when working with free-ranging, wild
animals. A distinction is made between euthanasia and humane killing, along with recognition that, especially when working with
free-ranging wild animals, humane killing may be the best possible option. Methods such as gunshot and use of kill traps are
acknowledged to be the best tools in some cases.
Because of the variety of situations that may be encountered, it is difficult to strictly classify methods for ending the life of freeranging wildlife as acceptable, conditionally acceptable, or unacceptable. Although the AVMA’s acknowledgement that what
constitutes “acceptable” may differ because of the necessities of field conditions is welcome, the lack of meaningful detailed
discussion on management under field conditions limits the utility of the Guidelines for wildlife professionals. For example, there
should be a detailed discussion of specific circumstances when “unacceptable” methods may (if ever) be considered “acceptable”.
Given the challenges associated with management of free-ranging wildlife; the potential for inconsistency and confusion relative to
what is acceptable for “harvest” (which the AVMA has not yet addressed) and what is acceptable for management; and the
difficulties in trying to address ethical issues and come up with criterion appropriate for captive animals/clinics and field
conditions, perhaps the AVMA Guidelines should abandon the idea of trying to deal with wildlife. Instead perhaps the AVMA
Guidelines should deal with lab and domestic animals, and to refer to Sikes et al. (2011) and Fair et al. (2010) regarding guidelines
for wildlife. Alternatively, this may be an area where it is appropriate for TWS to take the lead and establish centralized criterion
for euthanasia and humane killing of wildlife outside the lab/clinic setting.
Although the AVMA notes that it is not a regulatory body, they should be aware that these Guidelines are used in formulation of
state regulations. When used in this context, the opportunities for professional judgment and flexible decision-making that are
noted as being important in the Guidelines are inevitably limited. Interpretation can escalate to a matter of legal debate.
Consequently, concerns expressed about the ambiguity of language and the acceptability ranking of methods as well as vague
treatment of what conditions warrant acceptance of otherwise “unacceptable” methods should be considered not just as
hypothetical issues but in context of their impact on the regulations which are based on the Guidelines.
Part 1: Preface and General Considerations
Overall: The language is murky in regard to categories of euthanasia methods. In the section Evaluating Euthanasia Methods,
three categories are described, along with “adjunctive” methods:
Acceptable: methods that consistently produce a humane death when used as a sole means of euthanasia.
Conditionally Acceptable: Techniques that may require certain conditions to be met to consistently produce humane
death, may have greater potential for operator error or safety hazard, are not well documented in the scientific literature,
or may require a secondary method to ensure death.
Unacceptable: methods deemed inhumane under any conditions (underline added, jb) or that the POE found posed a
substantial risk to the human applying the technique.
Adjunctive Methods: those that should not be used as the sole method of euthanasia, but that can be used in conjunction
with other methods to bring about euthanasia.
Immediately following is this statement: “The Panel on Euthanasia (POE) recognized there will be less-than-perfect situations in
which a listed acceptable or conditionally acceptable method of euthanasia may not be possible, and a method or agent that is the
best under the circumstances will need to be applied.” This leaves “best under the circumstances” undefined. While it isn’t
possible to anticipate every situation, the language could be more explicit. Does this mean “Unacceptable” methods could become
“acceptable” if they are the “best under the circumstances?” Or are “unacceptable” methods unacceptable under any conditions?
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DECEMBER 2012
A good example, which will impact field biologists working with mammals and birds, is the use of thoracic compression. Both the
American Society of Mammalogists (Sikes et al. 2011) and the Ornithological Council (Fair et al. 2010) have recently issued
guidelines on the use of mammals and birds, respectively, in research. Both guidelines describe thoracic compression as a humane
and suitable (often preferred) method of euthanasia. The draft AVMA Guidelines move thoracic compression from the
“conditionally acceptable” classification in the 2007 edition, to “unacceptable” in the 2011 edition. Thoracic compression is
considered (in the draft) only as an appropriate adjunctive method of euthanasia for animals that are insentient or deeply
anesthetized. Yet it will likely continue to be the “best under the circumstances” in many field situations.
The statement, “The Guidelines…are intended to assist veterinarians…”, and a similar statement at the beginning of the section on
“Statement of Use” fails to recognize that many wildlife professionals who routinely work with animals use and are impacted by
the Guidelines. These professionals may perform euthanasia, albeit often with training and experience gained under boardcertified veterinarians, during research, routine management, wildlife damage management, and when responding to a host of
unforeseen and unanticipated field-related circumstances warranting euthanasia. Based on the language in the Guidelines and the
types of methods considered, the actions of these professionals were included in the topics covered by the Guidelines.
Consequently, the statement should be changed to include other professionals who may be faced with euthanizing animals.
History of the Panel on Euthanasia: Again, the wildlife profession works as closely with animals as do board certified
veterinarians, and there should be some collaboration between the professions on guideline recommendations. We would point out
that it is not unusual for the wildlife biologist, or individuals responsible for care of captive wildlife to have greater experience
than many veterinarians with handling of a particular species, potential euthanasia methods, and the likely response of specific
species to stimuli and handling. Collaboration between the veterinarian and the wildlife professional is essential to providing the
best possible outcome for the animals.
What is Euthanasia: Euthanasia statement last sentence - we suggest that “religious” be added to the list of domains applicable to
the discussion because much of the debate is driven by religious values, which are not precisely the same thing as “ethics”.
A Good Death as a Matter of Humane Disposition: There are two questions to be addressed, 1) the issue of when it is acceptable
to end an animal’s life and 2) how we end an animal’s life. We believe that the discussion of euthanasia in these Guidelines
should be confined to the mechanisms of how we end an animal’s life, once the decision to end an animal’s life has been made.
As noted by the AVMA Guidelines in the Section “What is Euthanasia,” the factors involved in the decision to end an animal’s life
are complex and we believe they deserve separate, independent treatment. This issue warrants more thoughtful and detailed
consideration than is presented in the Guidelines. This would allow for discussion and comparison of the different types of
circumstances when these decisions are made. As the document is currently written, it really only addresses this issue in the
clinical context. By doing so, it creates confusion and uncertainty as to whether these same reasons should be applied to all
decisions to end an animal’s life.
This section fails to go far enough because it neglects the “suffering” of the animal’s owner. While the animal’s suffering is a
sufficient condition, it is not the sole factor that may justify euthanasia. The owner’s context must also be considered, and his/her
will to have an animal killed in a painless manner is sufficient grounds to terminate an animal’s life.
A Good Death as a Matter of Humane Technique: Good discussion. This section is a solid foundation for wildlife professionals
on field-related euthanasia.
Human Behavioral Considerations: This section is relevant to wildlife management on several levels. Wildlife professionals
can relate to having to put down an animal that has: (1) provided years of devoted companionship comparable to any human
relationship; (2) facilitated long streams of data either through simple observation, indirect inference, or remote sensing
electronics; and/or, (3) simply it’s a beautiful creature that deserved a better end. As wildlife professionals, we must have
compassion when euthanasia is employed as it is a calming salve to peers and sends a clear message to the larger public that this is
not a situation taken lightly – it is professional. This section is well written regarding an aspect of euthanasia on which it is
difficult to provide guidance.
The draft describes a “fourth setting” as wildlife conservation and management. It states that wildlife managers are often faced
with “… euthanatizing animals that are injured, diseased, in excessive number, or that threaten property or human
safety.” However, wildlife damage management is incompletely considered, if at all, in many sections of Parts 2 and 3.
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
While we appreciate the statement noting that relocation may be, at best, a temporary solution to the problem, we are concerned
that the sentence on relocation in the “fourth setting” does not adequately reflect the true limitations and concerns of this method.
Problems with wildlife that are injured, diseased, in excessive number, or are causing damage are rarely solved by relocation, and
there are few situations in which capture-transportation-release are appropriate, or even legal; it should not be even considered “a
temporary solution”, whatever that is. The biological and ethical concerns surrounding this method are complex. We believe the
Guidelines on euthanasia are not the appropriate forum for a discussion of this issue. We would recommend that the sentence
regarding relocation is not appropriately placed. Omitting this sentence from the discussion does not compromise the intent of the
paragraph.
Our group struggled with this section. Wildlife professionals are concerned that public opinions relative to a method which may
be used to end an animal’s life often do not take into consideration the harsh realities of the death the animal may face in “nature”.
Nonetheless, the AVMA focus in this document is on striving for the ‘best death” possible. Using their criterion, the fact that a
method is “better than the death an animal would likely have in nature” does not excuse us from preferentially selecting a different
method which may also be practical and effective but which better meets the definition of “humane death” as set in the Guidelines.
(See last sentence on “A Good Death as a Matter of Humane Technique”). This being said, sometimes we really don’t have many
options as to how to effectively and practically address a damage situation. At some point, we as professionals have to come to
terms with the idea that not everything we do for damage management will qualify as “euthanasia”, but it may be the most humane
strategy available to us within the constraints of practicality and effectiveness.
The statement from the “sixth setting” regarding “Attention to public perceptions, however, should not outweigh the primary
responsibility of doing what is in the animal’s best interest under the circumstances” should be included in the section on the
“fourth setting”. As with veterinarians helping a pet-owner evaluate the factors relevant to the decision to euthanize an animal,
wildlife professionals should be prepared to communicate the factors relevant to the decision to use lethal methods including ethics
and humanness concerns regarding relocation, efficacy, ethical and logistics concerns pertaining to permanent housing of a
seriously injured animal in captivity, stress and distress to a wild animal associated with treatment...
Carcass Disposal: This section could be better presented under a more structured format, i.e, (1) contain (manage) the spread of
contagious disease, (2) compliance with state natural resource agency and/or federal laws, (3) drug-related contamination issues
related to bioaccumulation or human contact. Although federal statutes are addressed fully, there should be more emphasis on
local (city/county) and state regulation or law, particularly for game animals. This should be addressed for field situations,
especially for contexts in which an animal cannot be removed from the field – a large ungulate that is overdosed or demonstrates
CWD and must be left in the field. For typical fieldwork in remote areas, retrieval of carcasses from the field is not a luxury.
Therefore, some recommendations for field expedients, such as burning carcasses, would be helpful. There are situations where
leaving carcasses to be consumed by predators or scavengers (e.g., an animal killed using some physical methods) may be a
practical and effective alternative.
Carcass Disposal: More detailed attention needed to be paid to the environmental consequences associated with use of some
methods which may be perceived as “more humane” specifically chemical methods of euthanasia which leave residue in the
carcasses. Environmental consequences (air quality, energy consumption) of methods such as burning and cremation should also
be noted.
Part 2: Methods of Euthanasia
Inhalant Agents
For field studies by wildlife professionals, the use of gases or gas chambers is usually too cumbersome, especially at remote sites
where weight is a limiting factor for equipment. Marine mammals are an exception but in this application, the animal is usually
moved to shipboard lab settings where weight is not limiting.
Carbon Monoxide: This draft section suffers from its focus on a lab animal setting, not taking into account the use of carbon
monoxide-producing devices (e.g., the USDA gas cartridge) used to control burrowing mammal pests. There needs to be language
declaring such devices to be acceptable for control of pest wildlife in appropriate situations. Alternately the language needs to be
modified in similar fashion to that in the section on Kill Traps. The section on kill traps notes that the use of sticky substances are
not acceptable but may be required…” We would assert that the use of gas cartridges would provide a faster and more humane
end than entrapment in “sticky substances” and may also be “required” in some situations. To do so, the statements in the
“Recommendations” section need to be reconsidered, e.g., a laboratory “CO chamber” would not be required; the rate of flow of
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
CO cannot necessarily be controlled when using pest control devices; CO used for pest control will not be “in a precisely regulated
and purified form without contaminants…”. The language that “…direct application of products of combustion…” therefore also
would need to be reconsidered. In addition to gas cartridge-type devices, a commercial device to control burrowing rodents that
injects pressurized carbon monoxide into burrows (e.g., ground squirrels, pocket gophers) has been developed and is in use and
should also be evaluated.
Non-inhalant Pharmaceutical Agents
Noninhalant Pharmaceutical Methods - Unacceptable AgentsThis brief section lists “strychnine, nicotine, caffeine … solvents
... and other toxicants” are unacceptable for use as euthanasia agents under any circumstances”. We are perplexed by the summary
dismissal of these methods without the discussion of impact on the species provided for other substances. For example, given the
lack of references noted in the section, it was unclear as to why solvents (which would presumably include dimethyl ketone) would
be prohibited in such a prejudicial manner given that no research has been performed on its effectiveness or impacts. The USDA,
APHIS, WS, NWRC has tested the use of caffeine as a dermal toxicant for certain (invasive) frog species. The use of dimethyl
ketone as euthanasia agent for striped skunks (when injected into the lungs or abdomen) is, used by the private wildlife pest control
industry. Observationally, there seems to be a lot of anecdotal info that this looks to be quite humane, from the standpoint of how
a skunk responds, including time to unconsciousness and death. Rejection of methods used by industry and which would appear,
at least superficially, to be at least conditionally acceptable, warrants discussion and not summary dismissal. In the absence of
toxicological data, it’s probably impossible to deal with that specific issue; however, for other registered vertebrate toxicants,
there’s probably a variety of data that might be mined if the AVMA Panel is interested in looking into such things.
Nor are any of these methods given the option for use when alternatives are limited that other, seemingly equally or less humane
methods are afforded. We note the inconsistency between this section and the section on Kill Traps which discusses “sticky
subsances” as being “unacceptable” but also being “required” in some unspecified circumstances. We acknowledge that some
methods may only be acceptable if reasonable alternatives are not available. However, this type of classification requires
thoughtful discussion and consideration of the alternatives, and not summary dismissal of such methods without review of relevant
research.
The impending problem with this section for wildlife professionals is that groups seek to inappropriately apply the AVMA
Guidelines to wildlife management, especially when seeking state or local legislation. Although the Statement of Use
acknowledges less-than-perfect situations and that a veterinarian should be consulted in the application of the guidelines, it is easy
for a voice of reason to be lost in the voice of impassioned arguments. Consequently, we feel it is essential to provide fair and
reasoned evaluation of the available methods.
Physical Methods
Some members of the group had concerns regarding the application of material in this section to damage management noting that
there is a difference between the methods used to capture an animal and the methods used to kill an animal. In general, when
seeking to euthanize an animal, kill traps do not come to mind as a means of accomplishing the goal even though they result in the
animal’s death. This distinction goes back to the earlier comments about euthanasia as a method. Using the AVMA definition,
kill traps rarely meet euthanasia requirements. However, their use would be preferential over other capture methods, if concern
over reducing animal suffering was in view, which we hope it is. Vantassel ( 2009) noted that the blurring of the distinction
between euthanasia and capture techniques has been exploited for political purposes to ban wildlife management and wildlife
damage management techniques as cruel (i.e. causing inhumane death).
Others considered this section a well-written and foundational introductory discussion for succeeding headings, with inference
wildlife professionals engaged in field studies or requiring improvisation of euthanasia methods that may not prove acceptable
under other conditions. For methods used in the field for wildlife studies, where equipment may be limited or less than ideal, some
contingencies for field euthanasia of target and non-target species should be made in advance, and the equipment on-hand should
be readily available. All these considerations should be disclosed and discussed in IACUC applications.
Manually Applied Blunt Force Trauma to the Head: Probably the most commonly used (but rarely openly acknowledged) field
method for wildlife biologist – hammer, heel of boot, gunstock butt, brick, among others.
Gunshot: The emphasis should be on training. This method is also “aesthetically displeasing” and results in conditions (visual,
odor, auditory) that may be unsettling for others, human or other animals. It should not be done in the presence of other animals
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NWCOA NEWS
DECEMBER 2012
where pain, discomfort, or distress may occur. If other animals are present or in close proximity, another option should be strongly
considered.
We recommend consulting with USDA, APHIS, Veterinary Services and USDA, APHIS, Wildlife Services regarding the use of
sharpshooters with suppressed firearms as a way to minimize noise and distress. This method has been used for depopulation of
captive cervids and for wildlife applications.
The draft states that “Under some conditions, a gunshot may be the only practical method of euthanasia” and that “A properly
placed gunshot can cause immediate insensibility and a humane death”. However, the draft recommendation begins with “When
other methods cannot be used, an accurately delivered gunshot is a conditionally acceptable method…” I’d hope this might be
changed to state that for use in wildlife management, gunshot (given appropriate safety and legal regulations) is equally acceptable
as other methods of euthanasia. For example, to euthanize an animal captured in a padded leghold trap, I see no reason why
gunshot should not be an equally acceptable choice as lethal injection of a drug. The Section on “A Good Death as a Matter of
Humane Technique” notes that under field conditions, ”use of a firearm may be the most appropriate form of euthanasia”. The
method should be treated consistently throughout the document.
Cervical Dislocation: The size limit for cervical dislocation in birds is likely set too low. Cervical dislocation for birds larger
than 200g is easily accomplished (for reference, a feral pigeon weighs approximately 265-380g, Cornell Lab of Ornithology).
There were no references cited to support 200g as the threshold for cervical dislocation of birds.
Waterfowl and larger birds (requiring two hands to hold) with long necks are very difficult to euthanize via cervical dislocation,
although the “steel rod” technique may aid considerably. For birds, brain impulses continue after dislocation and this method
should not be used where it may cause pain, discomfort, and distress in others, especially if in holding pens or cages. Euthanasia
should be conducted at a location removed from common holding sites for other animals.
Electric Stunning and Electrocution: The draft seems not to recognize the technology now being sold (and used) for
electrocution traps aimed at commensal rodents (e.g., the Rat Zapper and certain Victor electric traps). Observations from field
practitioners have indicated that the electronic traps that kill via electrocution offer some real advantages over snap traps and
obviously over glue traps; it is said they are effective “because a mouse's heart is so fragile to this type of trauma at very low
amperage”. One knowledgeable rodent control expert states, ”we use the Woodstream Victor multiple catch electrocution trap in
our Green Rodent Control … in areas where humaneness is an issue.” The Panel needs to reconsider this section, giving
consideration to electrocution traps for rats and mice; in doing so, their statements that “it is economical” and “it may not result I
death in small animals” need to be changed for this new context.
Kill Traps: This discussion is critically important to federal, state, and local wildlife agencies, and to professional wildlife
biologists. However, this discussion caused a great deal of confusion. The crux I believe is there are two definitions of euthanasia,
regardless of the discussion and definition provided in Part 1 (roughly Preface through Euthanasia and Veterinary Medical Ethics).
The focus of the AVMA Draft Guidelines to this point is based on euthanasia as an action of last resort to mitigate pain,
discomfort, or distress from situations that were more or less unanticipated or accidental. Euthanasia in this context is for animals
that cannot be restored to normal health or returned to the wild.
To include kill traps as a form of euthanasia does utilize the broader definition of euthanasia but this is a bit of a stretch to jump
from an act of mercy to a decision-based (as in premeditated) management action to remove unwanted individuals, possibly entire
populations in some situations. We understand that animals can be taken lethally in a humane manner. I just want to make it clear
that to look in a euthanasia Guidelines for trapping recommendations would not be my first choice, especially as a wildlife
biologist. The combination of the two aspects of euthanasia affects the flow of logic and readability of the Guidelines. After some
reflection on the matter, we believe there may be no other place to address this subject, although this section does admit kill trap
“use remains controversial and kill traps do not always render a rapid or stress-free death…”
Specific comments including updating of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) references to include ISO 10990-4
Part 4: Methods for testing killing-trap systems used on land and underwater (1999), and ISO 10990-5 Methods for testing
restraining traps (1999), which have specific recommendations for humane trapping, i.e., how many seconds to unconsciousness
and death. The point here is that an industry standard has been set which provides a measurable means of determining humane
take with traps.
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DECEMBER 2012
The closing paragraph is greatly appreciated as there is little consistency between state natural resource regulations regarding how
often traps should be checked – often the default standard for IACUC application reviews. Specifically, I am referring to “Traps
need to be checked at least once daily. In those instances when an animal is wounded or captured but not dead, the animal must be
killed quickly and humanely. Kill traps should be used only when other acceptable methods are not practical or have failed. Traps
for nocturnal species should not be activated during the day to avoid capture of diurnal species. Trap manufacturers should strive
to meet their responsibility of minimizing pain and suffering in target species.”
The logic demonstrated in the first paragraph that states that “…kill traps do not always render a rapid or stress-free death
consistent with the criteria established for euthanasia by the Panel (Meerburg, 2008). For this reason, use of live traps followed by
other methods of euthanasia is preferred” is troubling. For the situations in which they describe kill traps being typically employed
(fur or meat harvest, scientific purposes, and pest control), I would suspect that many times live traps are not checked any more
frequently than once daily. Europe, Australia, and New Zealand have done a lot of work on evaluation of kill traps in recent
years. For example, “Class A” kill traps in New Zealand require than an animal be rendered unconscious within 30 secs, and for
“Class B” kill trap within 3 mins. Many kinds of birds or mammals captured in live traps would endure much longer periods of
stress if captured in a typical live trap, versus a kill trap. The AVMA does note that there are “a few situations… e.g. pest control”
where use of live traps is not possible or “may actually be more stressful for the animals…” than kill traps. It seems likely that
they’ve under-estimated the proportion of instances where this is the case.
In the last paragraph of this section, they state that traps need to be checked at least once daily. The Guidelines should reference
use of the several new technologies that allow traps (both kill and live) to be monitored remotely, so that the trapper can be
efficient in visiting traps that have just been activated, or can avoid wasting time checking remote traps that have not been
activated
As noted above, the language regarding “sticky substances (presumably glueboards) being “unacceptable” but also being
“required” in some unspecified circumstances is perplexing. Such a sweeping reversal on acceptability deserves a detailed
description of what constitutes “required” so that practitioners and the public may have a better idea of what would take an
unacceptable method and make it acceptable. Further, the same exception for “required” should be addressed in evaluations of all
other methods discussed in the Guidelines, especially those considered “unacceptable”.
Thoracic Compression The Ornithological Council’s newest (2010) Guidelines to the use of wild birds in research
(http://www.nmnh.si.edu/BIRDNET/permit/index.html) still considers thoracic compression a viable means of euthanasia. We
strongly encourage the AVMA to consider the evidence of the humaneness of this method presented by Ornithological Council
and believe this should be an accepted method.
References
Sikes, R. S., W. L. Gannon, and the Animal Care and Use Committee of the American Society of Mammalogists. 2011.
Guidelines of the American Society of Mammalogists for the use of wild mammals in research. J Mammal., 92(1):235–253.
Fair, J. M., E. Paul, J. Jones, A. B. Clark, C. Davie, and G. Kaiser. 2010. Guidelines to the Use of Wild Birds in Research.
Washington D.C. Ornithological Council.
Vantassel, S. M. 2009. Dominion over Wildlife? An Environmental-Theology of Human-Wildlife Relations. Eugene, OR: Wipf
and Stock.
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