Quick Answer
Tennessee's diverse wildlife includes white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, raccoons, opossums, groundhogs, squirrels, and coyotes. Identifying the animal by the damage they cause: deer (clean browsing at 1-5 ft), groundhogs (burrows under sheds, eaten gardens), raccoons (overturned garbage, tracks in mud), coyotes (scat with hair, howling at night), and armadillos (cone-shaped holes, scattered mulch). Tennessee has specific regulations for wildlife removal.
Tennessee Wildlife Yard Guide
Tennessee's abundant wildlife is one of the state's greatest assets, but it can also create challenges for homeowners. Learning to identify which animal is causing damage helps you choose the most effective and legal management approach.
Damage Identification by Animal
| Damage Type | Animal | Active Time | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eaten garden plants (1-5 ft) | Deer | Dawn/dusk | 8 ft fencing, repellents |
| Burrows under sheds, eaten garden | Groundhog | Daytime | Exclusion fencing, trapping |
| Overturned garbage, attic noise | Raccoon | Night | Secure cans, exclusion |
| Cone-shaped holes in lawn | Armadillo | Night | Grub control, exclusion |
| Small lawn holes, odor | Skunk | Night | Grub control, exclusion |
| Tunnels in lawn, tree girdling | Vole | Day/night | Mowing, tree guards |
| Scat with hair/bones, pet predation | Coyote | Dawn/dusk | Hazing, fencing |
Tennessee Wildlife Regulations
- Deer: Hunting is regulated by TWRA; damage permits available for severe crop damage
- Groundhogs: Can be trapped year-round without a permit
- Raccoons: Can be trapped with a permit; relocation is restricted
- Coyotes: Can be hunted year-round; no bag limit
- Armadillos: Can be trapped and euthanized
- Bats: Protected; exclusion restricted during maternity season
Seasonal Wildlife Calendar
| Season | Wildlife Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Groundhog emergence, skunk mating, raccoon babies |
| Summer | Deer fawns, squirrel babies, bat maternity colonies |
| Fall | Deer rut, bear foraging, rodent seeking warmth |
| Winter | Squirrel mating, rodent activity in homes |
FAQ: Tennessee Wildlife
What is the most common wildlife problem in Tennessee?
Deer damage to gardens and landscaping is the most widespread issue. Groundhogs are the most common structural problem (burrows under buildings).
Do I need a permit for wildlife removal in Tennessee?
It depends on the species and time of year. Nuisance wildlife removal permits are required for some species. Contact the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) for specific guidance.
Professional Wildlife Removal in Tennessee
If you need professional wildlife removal or pest control services in Tennessee, our local guides cover the following cities:
- Nashville, TN — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
For help identifying the specific animal causing damage in your yard, see our What Animal Is Digging Holes in My Tennessee Yard? guide.
Sources: US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Wildlife Services, state wildlife agencies, CDC, academic extension services. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice.