Mallard Control

Mallard Control Permit

2026 permits are available!

By issuing these permits, FWC hopes to provide relief for nuisance situations and to help reduce hybridization, or cross-breeding, between feral mallards and Florida's wild, native mottled duck.  More detailed information on the problem of hybridization is available on our Waterfowl website.

Mallard control permits allow the following type of control:

1. Lethal control and trapping of feral mallards on private lands- May 1 through August 31 annually.
2. Destruction of nests and eggs of feral mallards on private lands - year-round.

This permit is NOT a hunting license. All provisions set forth in the state and federal permits must be adhered to. Read them carefully. Permits expire December 31 annually.

In order to carry out mallard control activities, you must:

1. Obtain a free FWC Mallard Control Permit (requires a printer to print the permit).
2. Print a copy of the federal permit.
3. Fill out a data sheet to record permit activity and take. This data sheet must be reported online, regardless of activity, by January 15^th.

Current Permit Holders

Access account to:

• Re-print FWC Mallard Control Permit; Submit report for activities/take

Reference information

• Florida State Statute prohibiting cruelty to animals
• Duck Identification
• Mottled/Mallard hybrid field guide