Wildlife

Wildlife Resources

Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS) provides general information and exclusionary methods to assist with wildlife problems. The animal shelter does not house or routinely care for wildlife.

Wildlife Exclusionary Methods & Services

Rehabilitation for Injured Wildlife

Carcass Removal from Roadways

Please contact the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) if the carcass is located on a road or shoulder of a road. If the carcass is not on a road, it is the property owner’s responsibility to have it removed if he / she wishes for it to be removed. LCAS does not pick up or remove carcasses. 

Wildlife Emergency Response

LCAS Animal Control Officers will respond to the following wildlife emergencies:

  • Wildlife in the living area of a residence or occupied area of a business that poses a threat to humans or domestic animals. Animal Control Officers will respond to snakes inside the home that are known to be a venomous species only. If you need assistance identifying snake species, please call at 703-777-0406
  • Wildlife displaying signs and symptoms of rabies
  • Sick or injured wildlife
  • Wildlife that have had physical contact with a human or domestic animal (potential rabies exposure)
  • Wildlife that pose a threat to humans or domestic animals

Nuisance Complaints

LCAS humane law enforcement officers do not respond to situations when wildlife poses no threat to humans or domestic animals. These include the following:

  • Damage to gardens, flower beds, ornamental shrubs (Typically squirrels, deer, groundhogs, raccoons)
  • Wild animals in attics, basements, garages and storage sheds (Typically squirrels, raccoons, bats or snakes)
  • Wild animals inhabiting or frequenting populated areas (Typically squirrels, deer, foxes, opossums or skunks)
  • Wild animals living under decks, storage sheds, porches and the like (Typically groundhogs, skunks, raccoons or opossums)

Tips on Living with Wildlife

By taking precautions you can keep your family and pets safe while enjoying the beautiful wildlife we have here in Loudoun County.

  • Vaccinate pets against rabies and keep vaccinations up to date. Rabies vaccines are required by law for dogs and cats age 4 months or older.
  • Keep your distance from animals acting strangely whether they are wild, or, companion animals with an unknown owner. Report strange animal behavior or animal attacks to LCAS by calling 703-777-0406.
  • Prevent contact between pets and wildlife, especially at night. Walk pets on a leash and feed cats and dogs inside.
  • Eliminate possible sources of food for wildlife from your yard and keep trash can lids tightly closed.
  • Any animal bites to people or pets or sightings of animals suspected of having rabies should be reported to LCAS (703-777-0406) or the Loudoun County Health Department  (703-777-0234).