Minnesota hunters are likely to encounter some nongame/invasive species as they make their trek through the woods. Though these three species listed here are considered invasive, the state does not actually have regulations or policies in place to curb their population with hunting. Until the state government makes further clarification, attempts to take invasive species should be cleared with the
Department of Natural Resources.
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- Eurasian Swine - Eurasian swine do not have a fully developed population in Minnesota, but neighboring states, including Wisconsin, have had issues with swine. The Minnesota DNR considers the species to be invasive on the early detection list. With that in mind, anyone who encounters this animal is encouraged to contact a conservation officer with the GPS coordinates of the animal and collect as much data as possible about the siting, including photographs if that option is available. Hunting is not regulated or addressed by state law at this time.
- Mute Swan - Mute swans are considered very aggressive and dangerous animals to encounter. These swans were brought to the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s as a means to decorate estates and parks. But when a pair was released, the population began to boom, having a negative impact on the vegetation that native species rely on to survive. Waterfowl hunters are likely to encounter these swans, as they like to live on lakes and wetlands. The species is considered a regulated species by the DNR, which means that a permit is required to take or dispose of a swan.
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- European Starling - The European Starling was first introduced in New York as a decorative bird for Central Park. As a result, the population soon began to flourish. Minnesota has declared the species an unregulated, non-native species in the state as they are already widely distributed. Their ability to reproduce and fly enables the starling to reproduce in a vast area. Hunting of the species is not regulated by the DNR. Efforts to control the bird population include modifying birdhouses to have smaller holes and limiting the type of feed provided in bird feeders.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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