Feral wild pigs are now considered to be the most abundant of all free-ranging animals with hooves within the United States. Despite this, they are not native. The species was first introduced to the country when Hernando de Soto arrived at the Florida coast in the year of 1539.
Explorers carried these animals with them while traveling as a food source; however, as they moved across the country, they were often left behind and the populations drastically increased.
Today’s wild pigs throughout the United States consist of the Eurasian wild boar, feral pigs, and hybrids. These populations not only cause significant damage, but they pose many dangers.
Damage
Listed in the top 100 of the worst type of exotic-based invasive species of the world, it has been estimated that each feral wild pig results in about $300 in damage a year. In terms of damage expenses and control costs, Americans spend about $1.5 billion in each year due to feral pigs.
Most of the damage stems from rooting activities or the pigs eating animal and plant materials. Not only do these activities result in soil erosion, they also cause invasive plant species to develop, alter PH levels in the environment, detrimentally impact water sources, and destroy natural habitats.
Feral wild pigs also negatively impact the agricultural industry. In addition to the previously mentioned, the wild pigs in the country result in damage to:
- Fences
- Orchards
- Farm Equipment
- Hay Fields
- Private Property
- Recreational Areas
- Landscaping
- Irrigation Systems
- Vehicles
Disease
Wild feral pigs have the capability of carrying and successfully transmitting a wide assortment of diseases that are bacterial-based, fungal-based, and viral-based. These threaten other forms of wildlife, livestock, domestic animals, and humans.
Examples of such diseases include – but, are not at all limited to – swine fever, swine brucellosis, foot and mouth disease, and pseudorabies. In addition to diseases, wild feral pigs have the capability of being aggressive.
In most instances, it is towards one another and other types of wildlife; however, it may also be towards humans -though, this is actually considered to be rare. Despite this, you should never approach a wild pig or attempt to trap the wild animal on your own.
Professional Feral Wild Pig Removal
It is not unheard of for wild pigs to find their way into residential or even commercial regions. We here at Palmetto Wildlife Extractors have the tools, resources, and knowledge it takes to successfully trap feral pigs without causing harm or injury to property or persons.
The most common technique that we use is trapping; however, we have a variety of other techniques that we may be able to utilize, too. If you notice wild pigs near your home or your business, you should contact us today for assistance.
These animals pose many dangers and have a highly large economic impact. For more information on our services or to set up an appointment for feral wild pig removal, contact us today by calling: 855-465-1088