Hawaii Lawmakers Reject Feral Chicken Killing Bill

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A bill that would have allowed Hawaii residents to kill feral chickens within certain limits did not pass the state legislature this session. The measure, which aimed to address the growing feral chicken population on Oahu, failed to even receive a hearing. A separate bill that would have declared feral chickens a public nuisance also stalled in the Senate.

Why it matters

Feral chickens have become a nuisance in many Oahu neighborhoods, with the birds damaging property, disrupting sleep, and raising concerns about disease. While some residents have sought ways to cull the population, lawmakers have been reluctant to approve measures that could be seen as condoning animal cruelty.

The details

House Bill 1852, which would have exempted feral chickens from the state's definition of wild birds and allowed people to kill them, never received a hearing. A different measure, HB2561 HD2, which would have declared feral chickens a public nuisance and prohibited feeding them on public land, made it further but was ultimately deferred in a joint Senate committee hearing. Opponents argued the bill failed to address the root cause of the problem - illegal cockfighting.

• The 2026 legislative session is currently underway in Hawaii.
• HB1852 was introduced but did not receive a hearing.
• HB2561 HD2 crossed over to the Senate but was deferred on March 20.

What’s next

SB2892 SD1 HD1, which would appropriate funds for each county to facilitate the receipt, handling, and humane disposition of feral chickens, is still alive in conference committee.