Living in Massachusetts means sharing your space with some unexpected neighbors. While most people know they can’t harm eagles or bears, there are actually quite a few creatures protected by state and federal law that might surprise you.
Whether they’ve nested in your attic, built a home in your backyard, or simply decided your porch is the perfect hangout spot, removing certain animals without proper permits can land you in serious legal trouble.
1. Eastern Box Turtles
Finding one of these slow-moving reptiles crossing your lawn might seem like a perfect opportunity to relocate it somewhere safer. Massachusetts law strictly prohibits removing or keeping box turtles, even if you think you’re helping.
These turtles have incredibly small home ranges and removing them from familiar territory can be fatal. They navigate using mental maps developed over decades, and relocation causes severe stress that often leads to death…