‘Certainly a problematic species’: California to allow hunting of ‘very aggressive’ mute swans

California has enacted a new law allowing year-round hunting of mute swans, a non-native species deemed aggressive and harmful to local ecosystems. Officials argue this measure is crucial for protecting the state's wetlands and native waterfowl populations, which have been declining. However, the decision has sparked controversy, with some groups labeling it as inhumane. This law reflects the ongoing debate between wildlife management and animal welfare, highlighting the complexities of balancing ecological health with ethical considerations.