How you can help

Wherever feral swine are present they become a 

problem by causing damage to livestock, 

agriculture, property, forests and other natural 

areas, threatening native wildlife, and posing risks 

to people and pets.

Want to 

learn more?

feral swine:

An Overview of 

a Growing Problem

Call your state USDA, APHIS, Wildlife Services office 

at 1-866-4USDA-WS or go to 

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife-damage/stopferalswine

to learn more about the problems caused by this invasive 

animal, as well as to seek advice and assistance 

in dealing with feral swine.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

If you live in a state with no or low levels 

of feral swine, report any sightings, 

signs, or damage to the wildlife or agriculture officials in your state

Don’t relocate feral swine to new areas 

or transport them to other states

Spread the word to discourage transportation and spread of feral swine

The United States Department of Agriculture, 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

(USDA, APHIS) is on the front lines in the battle 

with this invasive animal.

Through a coordinated national effort, APHIS is 

working closely with partners at the state and 

local levels to address the extensive damage 

caused by expanding feral swine populations.

FERAL SWINE ROOTING DAMAGE

FERAL SWINE INTERACTING 

WITH LIVESTOCK
What are 

feral swine?

Why are they a problem?

What do 

they look like?

Feral swine, also known as wild pigs, Eurasian 

boar, or feral hogs, are not native to North 

America. They were first brought into the 

United States in the 1500s by early explorers 

and settlers as a source of food. Repeated 

introductions occurred thereafter, as well as 

breeding with escaped domestic pigs. They are 

a harmful and destructive invasive species 

whose geographic range is rapidly expanding 

and their populations are increasing across the 

nation. Over 6 million feral swine can now be 

found across more than 35 states.

Feral swine cause significant damage to property, agriculture (crops and livestock), native species and ecosystems, and historical and cultural resources. They also pose a threat to the health of wildlife, pets and other 

domestic animals, and humans. Currently, feral swine are estimated to cause more than $1.5 billion in damages and control costs each year in the United States. Damages and risks to animal and human health are expected to rise as feral swine populations continue to expand across the country. 

Feral swine can be found in many different sizes and colors because of their extensive crossbreeding. Some look 

like pure Russian or Eurasian wild boars, while others look more like domestic pigs. Adults weigh from 75 to 250 

pounds on average, but some can get twice as large. They generally have a thick coat of coarse bristly hair.

Signs of feral swine

Feral swine can carry at least 30 diseases, and 

nearly 40 parasites that may affect humans, 

pets, livestock, and other wildlife. Feral swine 

can also pass on bacteria associated with 

foodborne illness. Collisions with vehicles 

and aircraft pose risks to occupants. Feral 

swine have been aggressive in some encounters with humans. Feral swine also may pose 

risks to pets, either directly through aggressive behaviors or by spreading diseases. 

Risks to People: 

Feral swine damage crops by consuming 

them or by their rooting, trampling, and 

wallowing behaviors. Feral swine can transmit 

diseases to domestic livestock. They can kill 

livestock, primarily calves and lambs. Feral 

swine damage pasture grasses and consume, 

contaminate, and destroy livestock feed. 

Feral swine also damage farm property, such 

as fences, water systems, irrigation ditches, 

troughs, and levees. 

Damage to Agriculture: 

Feral swine behaviors, such as eating, rooting, 

soil compactions, and wallowing, all damage 

native plants. Their diets often overlap with 

those of native wildlife, which results in competition for food. Feral swine also eat invertebrates and other small animals, and destroy 

nests and consume eggs of reptiles and 

ground-nesting birds. Their preference for wet 

environments can cause competition with 

native wildlife for water during dry seasons. 

Damage to Natural Resources: 

Cultural sites impacted by feral swine include 

national historic sites, tribal sacred sites and 

burial grounds, cemeteries, and archaeological

sites and digs. Feral swine damage can affect 

the significance and integrity of historic 

properties through physical disturbance to 

structures, vegetation, and soils. 

Damage to Cultural and 

Historical Resources: 

Feral swine destroy landscaping, damage 

fences and other structures, and otherwise 

reduce the aesthetic value of private properties, public parks, and recreational areas. 

Because of their large size, collisions with 

vehicles such as motorcycles, automobiles, and 

aircraft can cause substantial damage. 

Damage to Property:

DAMAGED CORN FIELD 

Rooting or digging caused by feral 

swine in their search for food can be 

extensive and cover several acres

Wallows are created by feral swine in 

moist areas in warmer months

Rubbing on trees often occurs after 

wallowing, leaving behind mud, hair, 

and scent

Tunnels and trails lead through 

thick vegetation 

Tracks can easily be found in the mud 

near springs, ponds, and streams

Feral swine scat resembles dog feces 

and may contain acorns, grains, and 

the hair, scales, or feathers of animals 

they have eaten