Feral pigs

Feral pests are introduced intentionally or accidentally and present some grave risks to non-native regions. The term “feral” takes into account both the released domestic species and the introduced exotic species. The feral pig (sus scrofa) is one species in particular which is causing widespread global concern. Thriving with virtually no natural controls, they incessantly devastate and degrade the flora and fauna around them. Some of the world’s hot spots dealing with these pests are Australia, Hawaii and parts of North America.

Also referred to as wild pigs, wild boars and feral hogs, these swine are actually quite similar to the domestic pig. Unlike their “porky pig” cartoon portrayal, feral pigs have perfectly straight tails that do not coil, although their coarse coat and “disc” shaped nose are the same as their domestic counterpart. The most imposing feature of the feral pig is their lethal tusks, which support multiple functions. Both the upper and lower sets protrude outside their mouths and grow between three to five inches in length.

Their ability to thrive in virtually any environment and their indiscriminate diet accounts for their large populations. They are especially fond of marshes and swamps, although they have been documented living in mountainous regions. Originating from Europe and Asia, they have been flourishing in North America since the late 1800’s. Few of the species are purebred “wild” species, as over time they have bred and descended from domestic livestock. North Carolina is said to be among the last few regions where “pure-blooded” feral species can still be found.

Their reproductive cycles are very versatile as they have the potential to breed at anytime of the year. Research has shown that at the beginning of the year and the beginnings of summer are especially favorable mating periods. Gestation endures for approximately four months, resulting in litters of five to ten young. Feral pigs construct a nest in which to bear their young, consisting of a hollowed out area lined with grasses. It is not unusual for males to aggressively battle during mating in an effort to establish dominance. This species usually reaches sexual maturity at about one and a half years. Evidence has shown that like many other species, factors such as food supplies impact the size and frequency of litters. In some regions feral pig populations exceed one million, making them an adversary to other species.

Deficient eyesight hinders them little and a heightened sense of smell serves its purpose well. Sun up and sun down are more then ever their active periods. For such a rotund looking animal, they’re incredibly quick and agile. Hardiness as established in the above description only lends to the complexity involved to harness and control this hazardous pest. A vague breakdown of their diet would include roots, grasses, frogs, snakes and bird eggs. Feral pigs are an opportunistic species and will feed on carrion that has been left unattended. In some locations their habit of feeding on young lambs can be quite costly to a farmer. Unfortunately, proving the pig’s fault is not easy as there are usually no remains left to inspect.

The environment is impacted negatively at many different levels by the establishment of the feral pig. Their method of “rooting” or digging in an attempt to secure a meal can bring about untold devastation. Not only is the method damaging, but also the size of the area uprooted is no small measure. Crops and pastures are at risk because they provide an easy food source. “Rooting” weakens and disturbs the soil and the plant communities that it supports. Even tree species can be placed in peril if the soil structure around it is disrupted. Soil is a vector (pathway) for nutrients and moisture. As a result of “rooting” feral pigs diminish the soil’s efficiency as well as destroy root systems. Very few species can survive with damaged roots and usually face demise.

To their benefit, there are little or no natural controls for them to adhere to. Some of these controls could include thorns, foul taste or toxins. These controls are nature’s way to deter extinction from over-eating by opportunistic species like the feral pig. Competition from the feral pig for available food sources jeopardizes the well being of other species. Wetlands are a preferred location for the feral pig and “rooting” disperses large amounts of dirt into the water bodies. Excess silt in any water body places stresses on vegetation and wildlife supported there. It can affect what species are able to thrive there. Their digging also helps to spread weeds. Dispersing the soil along with weed seeds or spores aids in their establishment in new locations.

Water quality is extremely important and feral pigs can affect this in a negative way. Not only is their “rooting” actions a problem, but their “wallowing” is damaging as well. Almost everyone in the world is aware that pigs like to roll around in wet, muddy holes, and the feral pig is no exception. Again this activity contributes to silt build-up and also contributes to some mosquito issues. Mosquitoes thrive in damp, shallow recesses and “wallowing” holes are prime habitat for them. Sadly, some mosquitoes carry avian malaria, with the potential to wipe out bird populations. Hawaii in particular is extremely vulnerable to this type of outbreak, as their wildlife consists almost entirely of bird species.

The introduction of this species is not all bad, and some people have managed to benefit from their existence. In Australia, income is obtained by exporting the pig’s meat. The local people who are employed by the export companies also gain benefit. They are hunted both commercially and recreationally, which also provides income to the countries housing them. It is difficult to agree that this is enough to endure their over-population though, as many threatened species will attest to. There still is not enough balance between the economic gain obtained compared to the financial burden imposed by their lifestyles.