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How to Get Rid of Beavers in Mississippi

Prior to 1850, beaver were found throughout Mississippi, extensively trapped and hunted by early settlers for their valued pelts and as a source of food until their near extinction by the early 1900s. Today, beaver have made a comeback to the point of being considered a nuisance. Tree and other plant and deck damage, and carrying harmful parasites such as giardia are some main reasons for controlling beaver populations. Mississippians are allowed to control beaver without a license or permit on their own property.

Things You'll Need

Metal tree wrap
Fencing
Plant repellent paint
Trap
Gun or cross-bow

Instructions

- 1
  Consult the Mississippi Beaver Control Assistance Program, administered by U.S.D.A. Wildlife Service, designed to provide assistance with beaver damage to private, county, and state-owned lands. It can provide Mississippi residents with technical assistance and direct control. Fees are minimal and rarely exceed $100.
- 2
  Remove wood and plants as a source of food for the beaver. Wrap trees with metal sheets (not chicken wire), place metal mesh fence "exclosures" around gardens and/or apply a fine sand/exterior latex paint mixture to any woody plants.
- 3
  Place an animal-proof barrier fence between your yard and the water source where beaver live.
- 4
  Trap beaver with the proper license. According to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife (MDWFP), Fisheries and Parks, it is the most effective and affordable way of managing beaver populations. For trapping to be effective, it should be conducted by a skilled trapper .
- 5
  Shoot the beaver, typically at night, by obtaining the proper hunting or cross-bow license. Beavers, however, can quickly become wary of guns.

Animals & Science