As outdoor activities ramp up this season, Wisconsin residents should stay vigilant for signs of feral hogs. Jeff Morris, University Extension Swine Specialist, emphasizes the need to be aware of this invasive species. Residents should stay alert while out in the woods, making firewood, or preparing for hunting. “Feral hogs are not a frequent topic here in Wisconsin, but there are pockets that require our attention,” Morris explained.
While Wisconsin has been fortunate to avoid significant feral hog issues, Morris warns that vigilance is key. “These animals are a well-known problem in southern states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida. The damage they cause to crops, land, and property is extensive, and they are known vectors for spreading diseases between farms,” Morris noted.
Wisconsin’s northern counties have reported isolated cases over the years, sometimes from imported animals used for hunting or escapees from commercial farms. Morris stressed the importance of recognizing the signs: “They can tear up soil like a moldboard plow and damage fencing heavily. If there’s corn standing, they’ll knock it down.”
The feral hog population in the United States continues to increase. With an estimated six million feral hogs across 32 states, they are responsible for 2.5 billion dollars of damage annually.
Feral hogs pose an additional challenge due to their rapid reproduction. “A single sow can have up to two litters a year, each with around ten piglets,” Morris warned. “Their numbers can multiply quickly, and they are incredibly hardy animals that can survive various conditions.”
If you see signs of feral hogs, report it to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) immediately. The DNR has a form on their website for sightings or you can contact them directly by phone or email. Morris emphasized that Wisconsin landowners are permitted to harvest feral hogs on their property without restriction. “These animals are much larger and more aggressive than domestic pigs, often three times the size with distinctive tusks and coarse hair.”