A beaver that appeared sick at a marina and a critically injured deer in an alley sent responders scrambling Monday—highlighting a common question residents keep asking: who should you actually call when wildlife is involved?
Sick Beaver at the Marina
The first call came in from Anchor Pad Marina, where a caller reported a beaver acting strangely and possibly sick along the riverbank.
Dispatch attempted to reach a wildlife officer but initially hit voicemail. They then tried the state wildlife hotline, which didn’t connect, before successfully contacting the Turn In a Poacher program at 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437). The tip line advised they would notify a wildlife officer.
A wildlife officer arrived within the hour to check the riverbank. There was no immediate report on the beaver’s condition or outcome.
Critically Injured Deer Dispatched
About 30 minutes later, officers were called to Mabert Road for a report of a deer lying in the grass behind a residence, its legs appearing broken.
Officers determined the deer was critically injured and humanely dispatched it with one round. City services were then called to remove the animal.
So… Who Do You Call for Wildlife Problems?
Calls like these happen often—and knowing the right number can save time (and stress).
Call Wildlife Officers / ODNR when:
- A wild animal appears injured, sick, or acting strangely
- There’s a deer, beaver, raccoon, or other wildlife involved
- You suspect illegal hunting or harm to wildlife
👉 Contact Ohio Department of Natural Resources
👉 Or call 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437) — confidential, 24/7
Call Police / 911 when:
- An animal is creating an immediate traffic hazard
- There’s a danger to people right now
- You can’t reach wildlife officials and the situation is urgent
Call Animal Control when:
- The issue involves domestic animals (dogs, cats, livestock)
- There’s a stray or aggressive pet, not wildlife
Wild animals aren’t pets—and they aren’t animal control cases either. When wildlife is injured or acting abnormally, ODNR and wildlife officers are the right call, with police stepping in only when public safety is at risk.
Monday’s calls were resolved quickly, but they serve as a reminder: calling the right agency first helps everyone respond faster—and more safely.