Hawaii Grapples with Feral Chicken Invasion

Lawmakers consider measures to control growing wild chicken population in Honolulu

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Hawaii residents, particularly in Honolulu, are dealing with a growing problem of feral chickens that have been multiplying and causing issues in local communities. State lawmakers are now considering measures to address the situation, including allowing residents to kill the chickens, deeming them a "controllable pest" on public land, and fining people for feeding or releasing them in parks. However, the issue is complicated by the cultural significance of chickens in Hawaiian history and the opposition of some animal advocates to killing the birds.

Why it matters

The feral chicken problem in Hawaii highlights the challenges of managing wildlife populations that have become a nuisance in urban and suburban areas. It also showcases the tensions that can arise when cultural traditions and environmental concerns collide. The proposed solutions aim to address the practical issues caused by the chickens, but must also navigate the sensitivities around the birds' historical and cultural importance.

The details

Honolulu residents like Mason Aiona have been dealing with the constant presence of feral chickens in their neighborhoods, with the birds causing damage, making noise, and being fed by park-goers despite pleas to stop. The city has spent thousands trying to trap the chickens, but the problem persists. Now, state lawmakers are considering measures that would allow residents to kill the chickens, declare them a "controllable pest" on public land in Honolulu, and fine people for feeding or releasing them in parks.

  • The crowing of feral chickens starts well before sunrise in Hawaii.
  • Honolulu has been dealing with the feral chicken problem for years.

The players

Mason Aiona

A retiree living in Honolulu who is bothered by the feral chickens in his neighborhood and surrounding park.

Kealoha Pisciotta

A Hawaiian cultural practitioner and animal advocate who disagrees with killing the feral chickens, as some are descended from those brought to the islands by early Polynesian voyagers.

Scot Matayoshi

A Democratic state representative from the Honolulu suburb of Kaneohe who backs the idea of controlling the feral chicken population.

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What they’re saying

“The moa is very significant. They were on our voyaging, came with us.”

— Kealoha Pisciotta, Hawaiian cultural practitioner and animal advocate

“I think there are people who are taking it more seriously now,”

— Scot Matayoshi, Democratic state representative

What’s next

State lawmakers are considering measures to address the feral chicken problem, including allowing residents to kill the birds, deeming them a "controllable pest" on public land in Honolulu, and fining people for feeding or releasing them in parks.

The takeaway

The feral chicken issue in Hawaii highlights the complexities of managing wildlife populations that have become a nuisance, while also respecting cultural traditions and concerns about animal welfare. The proposed solutions aim to find a balance, but will likely face continued debate and opposition from various stakeholders.