North Carolina Ranks No. 7 in Nation for Rampant Feral Swine Invasion
Feral swine weighing up to 400 pounds have become an invasive problem in North Carolina, with the state ranking No. 7 in the nation for their presence. These giant hogs have invaded nearly every county in the state, causing widespread destruction and havoc. From urban areas like Wake and Mecklenburg counties to the more remote regions, the feral swine leave a trail of devastation in their search for food.
According to state wildlife officers, these growling and grunting beasts wreak havoc on crops, landscaping, and wildlife habitats. They also prey on ground nesting birds and white-tailed deer fawns, while spreading diseases. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission warns that controlling these destructive animals is challenging, mainly due to the ongoing illegal releases that supplement their growing population.
A recent study by Captain Experiences revealed that North Carolina has logged 655 feral swine sightings across 85 of its 100 counties. This represents a significant increase compared to 1982 when the pigs were reported in fewer than 20% of the state’s counties. The study utilized data from the University of Georgia Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health to identify the states with the largest wild hog problem.
The feral swine in North Carolina have a historical significance as well. Early explorers brought the pigs to the region in the 1500s as a food source. Over time, the state ended up with more pigs than any other colony in the New World, making them deeply ingrained in the state’s history.
These feral hogs are not only a threat to agriculture and wildlife but also their lack of predators allows them to live longer than they should. With their intelligence in avoiding people, confrontations are rare, reported the state. In fact, the feral swine page on the state’s wildlife website does not list any deaths caused by wild pig attacks. The only recorded death in the United States from a wild hog attack occurred in 2015, when a woman in Texas was killed by a herd of feral pigs.
While encounters with wild boar in North Carolina are reported annually, they primarily happen when someone inadvertently comes between a sow and her litter or when a hunting dog corners a pig. In most instances, victims suffer minor injuries, such as puncture wounds or lacerations on their legs and feet.
To control the feral swine population, the state wildlife officials recommend trapping as the most effective solution. However, with their high intelligence and adaptability, managing these destructive creatures remains an ongoing challenge.
The invasion of feral swine in North Carolina highlights the need for effective measures to address this growing problem. From the destruction of crops and habitats to the spread of diseases, these giant hogs pose a significant threat to the state’s ecosystems. As authorities continue their efforts to control the population, it is crucial to raise awareness about the impact of these invasive animals and find sustainable solutions to mitigate the damage they cause.
