What are Feral Swine
Feral swine are the same species, Sus scrofa, as pigs that are found on farms. Feral swine are descendants of escaped or released pigs. Feral swine are called by many names including; wild boar, wild hog, razorback, piney woods rooter, and Russian or Eurasian boar. No matter the name they are a dangerous, destructive, invasive species.History of feral swine in the Americas
Feral swine were first brought to the United States in the 1500s by early explorers and settlers as a source of food. Repeated introductions occurred thereafter. The geographic range of this destructive species is rapidly expanding and its populations are increasing across the nation.Feral swine are not native to the Americas. They were first brought to the United States in the 1500s by early explorers and settlers as a source of food. Free-range livestock management practices and escapes from enclosures led to the first establishment of feral swine populations within the United States. In the 1900s, the Eurasian or Russian wild boar was introduced into parts of the United States for the purpose of sport hunting. Today, feral swine are a combination of escaped domestic pigs, Eurasian wild boars, and hybrids of the two.
Feral swine have been reported in at least 35 states. Their population is estimated at over 6 million and is rapidly expanding. Range expansion over the last few decades is due to a variety of factors including their adaptability to a variety of climates and conditions, translocation by humans, and a lack of natural predators.
Feral Swine Identification
Feral Swine Identification
Feral swine often look very similar to domestic hogs, but are generally thinner with thicker hides of coarse bristly hair and longer tusks. Because of their extensive crossbreeding, feral swine vary in color and coat pattern, including combinations of white, black, brown, and red. Piglets are...
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USDA APHIS | History of Feral Swine in the Americas
www.aphis.usda.gov
Feral Swine in America: Episode 1- Mississippi
Hear the stories of farmers, ranchers, and others impacted by invasive feral swine in this short video series. Episode 1- Mississippi looks at the impacts feral swine have on farmers large and small as well as the levy system, natural resources, and archaeological sites.
Feral Swine in America: Episode 2- Oklahoma
Hear the stories of farmers, ranchers, and others impacted by invasive feral swine in this short video series. Episode 2 – Oklahoma looks at the impacts feral swine have on native game species, pecan orchards, and rural livelihoods.
Feral Swine in America: Episode 3- Texas
Hear the stories of farmers, ranchers, and others impacted by invasive feral swine in this short video series. Episode 3- Texas looks at the impacts feral swine have on cattle, sheep, and goat ranchers in Texas.
Feral Swine in America: Episode 4- Arizona
Hear the stories of farmers, ranchers, and others impacted by invasive feral swine in this short video series. Episode 4 – Arizona looks at the impacts feral swine have on native ecosystems and wildlife and how USDA Wildlife Services is using new technology to improve management success.
Feral Swine in America: Episode 5 - Georgia
This video series shows the stories of farmers, ranchers, and others impacted by invasive feral swine. Episode 5- Georgia looks at the damage feral swine causes to peanut farms and the impact on Georgia farmers. This episode also takes you to Cumberland Island to learn about the devastating impact feral swine have on nesting sea turtles.
Learn how USDA Wildlife Services is working to manage the damage and stop feral swine, go to https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/wildlifedamage/operational-activities/feral-swine for more information. Follow APHIS YouTube and watch for future episodes.
USDA APHIS | Feral Swine-Managing an Invasive Species
www.aphis.usda.gov
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