CDFW invites artists to submit original artwork for the 2026-27 California Duck Stamp Art Contest. Photo courtesy of California Department of Fish and Wildlife

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is inviting artists to submit original work for the 2026-27 California Duck Stamp Art Contest, with entries accepted from May 11 through June 19.

The annual contest, established in 1971, draws wildlife artists from across the country. Proceeds from stamp sales support waterfowl conservation projects throughout California.

Artists must depict a greater white-fronted goose, the species selected by the California Fish and Game Commission for the 2026-27 hunting season. The bird, often called a “specklebelly,” is known for its brownish-gray coloring, barred belly and white forehead. The species breeds in the Arctic tundra and migrates to wintering areas that include California’s Central Valley.

Winning artwork will appear on the 2026-27 California Duck Stamp. Top entries are typically displayed at the Pacific Flyway Decoy Association’s art show, scheduled for July.

The contest is open to U.S. residents age 18 or older as of April 1, 2026. Entrants do not need to live in California, but current and former CDFW employees are not eligible. Submissions must include a completed entry form and participation agreement, available online at wildlife.ca.gov/duck-stamp/contest.

Entries must be original, hand-drawn designs created in full color. Photographic processes, digital art, metallic paints and fluorescent paints are not allowed. Artwork copied from photographs or previously published images, including those found online, will be disqualified.

A panel of judges with expertise in ornithology, conservation, art and printing will evaluate submissions in June and select first-, second- and third-place winners along with honorable mention.

Although hunters no longer need to carry a physical stamp under California’s automated licensing system, the department continues to produce collectible stamps available by request. Additional details are available on CDFW’s website.