pig (feral), wild boar at large Susscrofa(feral type) Linnaeus
Feral swine (also called wild pigs and feral hogs) are an invasive species rapidly becoming established throughout the country.
Feral swine cause significant damage to agricultural crops, forests, private property, and other natural areas.
In 2000, it was estimated that the total damage caused by feral swine in the United States was approximately $800 million annually.
Feral swine damage is caused by their feeding, wallowing, rooting, and tree rubbing.
Damage usually occurs at night and can be severe after only a few nights.
Damaged areas are left exposed and open to the establishment of invasive plants.
Feral swine can vary greatly in appearance and in size. Feral swine are cross between the Eurasian boar and escaped/neglected domestic swine. Typical fur coloration for true Eurasian boar can be grey to dark brown to black, while domestic breeds can display a wider variety of colors with many defining patterns of striping or spots.
Feral swine can carry diseases that threaten livestock, pets, and humans.
Feral swine are omnivorous feeders and will consume anything in their path – invertebrates, small mammals and other small vertebrates, eggs of ground-nesting birds, even the young of larger animals such as white-tailed deer. In addition, feral swine compete with native wildlife for valuable resources, such as acorns that squirrels, deer, and turkey depend on during winter months.