Law Enforcement

A smiling law enforcement officer talking with anglers

Law enforcement is essential to wildlife conservation. The law enforcement officers contribute to Service efforts to provide for safety of visitors to refuges, prevent poaching, preserve wildlife habitat and endangered species, restore fisheries, protect migratory birds, combat invasive species, and promote stewardship.


Non-emergency complaints of violation on Bayou Teche Refuge lands should be reported to Refuge Law Enforcement, (985) 882-2041.

Information on wildlife crimes or crimes on National Wildlife Refuges can also be reported anonymously by calling or emailing the NWR TIPs Line. Both are available 24 hours a day:

1-844-FWS-TIPS (397-8477) 

 FWS_TIPS@FWS.GOV

To report general wildlife violations in the State of Louisiana: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Operation Game Thief Hotline: 800-442 2511.

For a comprehensive list of guidelines and regulations at Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge, please refer to the Refuge Public Use Regulations.

To learn more about the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's law enforcement program visit their website here.