Hawaii Senate Bill SB10

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/20/23

Caption

Relating To Feral Roosters And Chickens.

Impact

The bill proposes to allocate $100,000 over two fiscal years for the management of feral roosters and chickens on state lands. The funding is intended to support the Department of Land and Natural Resources in effectively managing and reducing the feral bird population, which aligns with efforts to preserve the integrity of local ecosystems and safeguard native species that may be threatened by these non-native birds. If implemented, the management plan could result in a systematic approach to control and potentially mitigate the feral bird population, addressing both ecological and community health concerns.

Summary

SB10 aims to address the issue of feral roosters and chickens in Hawaii, which have increasingly become a nuisance in various communities across the state. The bill identifies the negative impacts of the feral bird population on residential areas, including noise complaints due to constant crowing, property damage, and associated health risks from unsanitary conditions created by their droppings. The problem is particularly acute in suburban and urban settings where interactions with people and property have led to public safety concerns, including road hazards as drivers attempt to avoid these birds.

Contention

While the bill presents a structured approach to managing feral roosters and chickens, it may face scrutiny regarding its effectiveness and ethical implications. Discussions may arise around humane treatment of the birds, the appropriateness of using state funds for wildlife management, and how those funds will be utilized to ensure comprehensive solutions. Stakeholder input from community members who may have differing views on wildlife management, as well as from conservationists concerned about the potential implications for native species, could lead to debates on the best path forward in controlling feral bird populations without adverse environmental consequences.