National Wildlife Research Center

Wildlife Services

April 2002

The National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) functions as the research arm of the Wildlife Services (WS) program in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Approximately 25 percent of WS' annual budget is spent on research. The Center helps WS manage wildlife populations by providing scientific information on conflicts between humans and wildlife. NWRC research activities emphasize socially acceptable methods that reduce or stop wildlife damage effectively and economically, minimizing risks for humans, wildlife, and the environment.

In existence since the 1920s, NWRC is the only research facility in the world devoted exclusively to the study of wildlife damage control. At NWRC and at field stations in 8 States, a staff of 160 employees specializes in wildlife biology, chemistry, animal behavior, physiology, biological and physical science technology, statistics, computer programming, electronic engineering, library science, records
management, and support functions.

In addition to its own staff, NWRC relies on individuals with additional specialties through cooperative ties with universities, not-for-profit research facilities, and other public and private research entities. NWRC has achieved an integrated, multi-disciplinary research program that is uniquely suited to provide scientific information and solutions to wildlife damage problems. Specific activities include:

Assessing damage and other problems caused by wildlife. The problems of wildlife interactions with society extend beyond the farm or ranch. An increasing number of wildlife-human conflicts occur in urban areas, such as deer in backyards, raccoons in gardens, squirrels in attics, geese on golf courses, birds colliding with airplanes, and wildlife being struck by automobiles.

Investigating the biology and behavior of problem animals. Much of what is currently known about coyote biology and behavior is a result of research conducted over many years at the NWRC Predator Research Laboratory at Millville, UT. This research has served as the basis for developing and applying many strategies and techniques used today for protecting livestock from predators.

Evaluating the impact of wildlife management practices on target species, nontarget species, and the environment. The Center designs studies to ensure that the methods developed to alleviate wildlife damage are biologically sound, effective, economical, and safe to the public and the environment.

Developing and improving technology to reduce wildlife problems. A few examples of current projects include chemosensory repellents and attractants for birds and mammals, methods to reduce bird hazards to aviation, control methods for the brown tree snake in Guam, aversive conditioning to deter egg predators, immunocon- traceptive vaccines and delivery systems that may resolve problems caused by wildlife over- population, and techniques to reduce bird damage to fish hatcheries and cereal crops.

Supporting registration of management chemicals and drugs. The Center works closely with the Environmental Protection Agency, other regulatory agencies, chemical registrants, and the private sector. Approved agents are manufactured, stored, and distributed at a USDA supply depot at Pocatello, ID, or by the private sector. The APHISWS program uses the latest chemicals and drugs in its field operations to improve its ability to manage wildlife problems.

Transferring scientific and technical information. The Center maintains a scientific library of publications and research papers and makes its materials available to other researchers. Like all Federal organizations, NWRC maintains an open-door policy and welcomes inquiries.

Additional Information

For more information, visit or write to the Center at:
Office of the Director
National Wildlife Research Center
USDA APHIS WS
4101 LaPorte Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80521
You may also call NWRC at (970) 266-6000 or visit our Web site at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/nwrc.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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