Which animal requires PGC approval to modify their habitat?

Beavers require Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) approval to modify their habitat due to their significant impact on ecosystems and landscapes. In Pennsylvania, beavers are classified as a game animal, which means that their population and management are regulated by state wildlife laws. Beavers are known for creating dams, which can dramatically alter their surrounding environment, affecting water flow, habitat, and other wildlife species.

The regulations surrounding beaver management are designed to ensure that their population remains balanced and that their habitat modifications do not lead to unintended consequences for other wildlife or human activities. This includes seeking approval for activities like dam removal or modification, as these can have significant ecological repercussions and affect private property.

Other animals listed, such as the field mouse, house sparrow, and skunk, do not have the same level of regulatory oversight regarding habitat modification by the PGC. This is because they are not classified in the same way as beavers, thus allowing for more flexibility in their management without needing specific approvals for habitat changes.