During winter, it is more difficult to take classes
outside. It may be tempting to bring the outdoors inside. While the concept is
admirable, ALL of Ohio’s wildlife is protected and cannot be taken or possessed
without the proper permits. Even some animal parts, like antlers, need a permit
or receipt to possess them.
The Division of Wildlife is the state agency
mandated with regulating and managing all wild animal populations. Part of that
responsibility is protecting species to ensure that they are not “loved to
death.” Therefore, regardless how noble the cause, proper education permits
must be obtained BEFORE removing animals from the wild. While we in no way want to restrict access to wildlife study, we just want educators to do it in a manner that conserves wildlife to be studied for future generations. The Division of
Wildlife strongly supports and promotes wildlife education, both in formal and non-formal
settings.
Educators who wish to use wildlife in their classrooms are able to
obtain a permit which allows them to legally possess an animal for educational
or scientific purposes. For more information on which permit you may need, or
how to obtain a permit, refer to Publication 5009 “A Guide to Using Animals in the Classroom.” Or contact the Ohio Division of Wildlife's Permit Coordinator, Melissa Moser, at 1-800-WILDLIFE for more information.