Chipmunks – Protected By Federal Law?

Q: I read where you said that chipmunks are protected by state law. A local landscaper disagrees. What’s the real answer on this?

A: The Official Code of Georgia says “Except as otherwise provided by law, rule, or regulation, it shall be unlawful to hunt, trap, fish, take, possess, or transport any nongame species of wildlife.” To me, “unlawful” means the state is protecting all nongame species, other than nuisance animals such as armadillos, coyotes, rats, etc. If the landscaper can correct me, I’d be glad to learn the new information.