California hunters will soon be allowed to take invasive mute swans year-round under new legislation signed into law earlier this month.
Beginning January 1, 2026, anyone with a valid California hunting license may take or possess mute swans at any time. The law, which sunsets in 2031, aims to curb the spread of this aggressive, non-native species that has expanded across the state’s wetlands.
Mute swans were first detected in California’s Suisun and Napa marshes in 2007. Since then, their numbers have ballooned to an estimated 6,900 birds, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The species is now considered highly invasive and detrimental to native ecosystems.
Unlike native waterfowl, mute swans are nonmigratory and extremely territorial, often displacing ducks and other birds from critical wetland habitats. They feed heavily on submerged vegetation, further threatening native species that rely on these limited resources.
The new law adds mute swans to the short list of invasive nongame birds — alongside English sparrows and European starlings — that can be taken at any time by licensed hunters. Landowners and lessees may also remove them without a hunting license or permit.
Assembly Bill 764, introduced by Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) and sponsored by the California Waterfowl Association, was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on October 6.
CDFW encourages the public to report any take or possession of mute swans through its Invasive Species Program at wildlife.ca.gov or by emailing invasives@wildlife.ca.gov.