Representative Mike Ezell, who represents Mississippi’s 4th congressional district, introduced the Cormorant Relief Act of 2025. The measure aims to streamline the management of cormorant populations and restore much-needed flexibility to state and tribal wildlife agencies. These large, fish-eating birds have posed an increasing threat to fish farms and native species across the Gulf Coast, especially in southern Mississippi.
"This is a big win for our catfish farmers, sportsmen and conservationists. The overpopulation of cormorants has had a serious impact on our aquaculture industry, and this bill gives local experts the tools they need to protect our fisheries and manage bird populations responsibly. It’s about common sense – putting decision-making back in the hands of the people who are closest to the issue and understand it best," said Ezell in a press release.
For years, Mississippi producers have voiced concerns about the federal regulations involved in managing protected bird species such as cormorants, whose feeding habits can severely reduce fish stocks.
“The population and range of cormorants have steadily grown in recent decades, leading to increased challenges for state and tribal fish hatcheries, the private aquaculture industry, and fisheries managers. We applaud Representative Ezell, along with Reps Thompson, Guest and Kelly, for their leadership in addressing the growing cormorant depredation problem without any deleterious effects on cormorant populations,” said Chris Horton, senior director of fisheries policy at the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation – a US-based non-governmental organisation.
The Cormorant Relief Act would empower state wildlife agencies to take action without having to wait for federal permits, a process that can be slow and bureaucratic, while ensuring oversight remains in place to protect migratory bird populations.
A key element of the bill is the reinstatement of a federal “depredation order”, which previously allowed authorised personnel to manage cormorant numbers under specific conditions without needing individual permits. Such measures are seen as essential by many in the aquaculture sector.
“Reinstating the federal double-crested cormorant depredation order is critical for Mississippi’s catfish farmers, who lose millions annually to these predatory birds. This measure will empower producers to protect their livelihoods, ensuring a thriving aquaculture industry that supports our state’s economy.” Said Mike McCormick, president of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.
The legislation must now be debated and approved by the full United States House of Representatives before proceeding to the Senate.
