What is the new law in California regarding mute swans?

The new law in California allows for the year-round hunting of non-native mute swans, which officials say is necessary to protect the state's wetlands and native waterfowl.

Who opposes the new law?

Some animal advocacy groups, such as Friends of Animals, have criticized the new law as "inhumane" and have urged Californians to oppose it, calling it a "desperate attempt by a dying hunting industry to add another 'bird to the bag.'"

Home / Environment / California Legalizes Year-Round Hunting of Invasive Mute Swans

California Legalizes Year-Round Hunting of Invasive Mute Swans

25 Oct

•

Summary

California passes law allowing year-round killing of non-native mute swans
Officials say move is essential to protect wetlands and native waterfowl
Some groups call the decision "inhumane"

California Legalizes Year-Round Hunting of Invasive Mute Swans

On January 1st, 2026, a new law in California will go into effect that allows for the year-round killing of non-native mute swans. The move, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom earlier this month, is aimed at protecting the state's diminished wetlands and native waterfowl populations.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), mute swan numbers have proliferated across the state, causing significant damage to sensitive wetland habitats. The birds are known to consume large amounts of aquatic vegetation and aggressively displace native species. With California having lost between 90-95% of its historic wetlands, the CDFW views the mute swan as a serious threat.

However, the decision has drawn criticism from some animal advocacy groups, who have labeled it as "inhumane." Friends of Animals, a New York-based organization, has urged Californians to oppose the bill, calling it a "desperate attempt by a dying hunting industry to add another 'bird to the bag.'"