Yes, in the situations we handle. The Muscovy ducks on South Florida community lakes are a non-native, domestic-origin duck, not protected native waterfowl. Because they're non-native, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service issued a control order that allows their removal along with nest and egg management.
That's the legal footing that makes a real program possible: with native migratory birds you're largely limited to hands-off deterrence, but with a non-native species under a control order, the flock itself can be reduced.
Identification comes first
The important caveat is identification. Native ducks and geese are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and we don't touch those. So we identify the birds carefully before doing anything and keep the work inside the terms of the control order.
Muscovy ducks are distinctive — often with the red, warty facial skin (caruncles) and a heavy, dark body — but correct ID still matters, and it's exactly what protects you from mishandling a protected native by mistake.
Why most communities have a pro do it
The control order has specific terms about how the work is carried out, and misidentifying a protected bird carries real legal weight. Between the ID and keeping the paperwork right, most boards and property managers have us handle it rather than risk a resident doing it wrong. If a specific situation needs a closer look, we'll tell you straight before we act — and this is general information, not legal advice for your specific case.
Common questions
Doesn't federal law protect all waterfowl?
It protects native migratory birds, but Muscovy ducks are non-native and fall under a USFWS control order instead. Correct ID first is how we make sure only the non-native birds are ever handled.
Can a homeowner do this themselves?
The control order has specific terms, and misidentifying a protected native bird is a real risk with legal consequences. Most communities have us handle it so the ID and the paperwork are done right.
What about the native ducks on the same lake?
They stay protected and untouched. That's the whole reason we identify carefully before acting — the control order covers the non-native Muscovy ducks, not the native waterfowl sharing the water with them.
