Garden Destroyers

August 29, 2013
 
Question: I have cottontail rabbits, gophers and rats that are destroying my garden and property. Do I need a license to shoot them on my private property? (Rodger D.)

Answer: Landowners and their tenants are not prohibited from taking cottontail rabbits, gophers or rats that are damaging their crops, gardens or ornamental plants (Fish and Game Code, section 4186 and CCR Title 14, section 472(a)). However, you should check with your local police department or sheriff to determine whether you may discharge a firearm where you live.

Are BB/pellet guns consider "firearm"?

Generally its a weapon in town.  I've been busted for shooting squirrels with a pellet gun in town.

What about raccoons in San Jose. Is it legal to take them if they are damaging property?

Generally its a weapon in town.  I've been busted for shooting squirrels with a pellet gun in town.

Sacramento has a specific city code prohibiting the discharge of air-powered guns.

Get traps at a farm supply

Sling Shots?

Have-a-heart traps work well. Live traps, what you do with them once trapped is up to you. Just so you know, getting a live animal out of one of those is a challenge sometimes! 

Have-a-heart traps work well. Live traps, what you do with them once trapped is up to you. Just so you know, getting a live animal out of one of those is a challenge sometimes! 

Spearguns work better on fish too 

Have-a-heart traps work well. Live traps, what you do with them once trapped is up to you. Just so you know, getting a live animal out of one of those is a challenge sometimes! 

Just pray that you catch anything but a skunk.

Pellet guns are a lot quieter nowadays... Just sayin. My .22 pcp is like mouse fart quiet, but it will blow through a fence, so not really an urban gun. I've had pellets pass through animals and do crazy things.

Rabbit is good eating! Especially one that'd been eating all your fresh veggies!

If pellet guns are not an option, I'd set up traps.

Or, get a dog.