Currently it is doubtful that any free-ranging hogs remain purebred Russian or European boars, but characteristics of this strain are found in feral populations throughout Texas. They are found in almost all Texas counties, and the total population probably exceeds one million. Increasingly, deer hunters also desire hog hunting, both for the excellent meat and to achieve that element of danger not present in a white-tail deer hunt. Feral hogs are not considered an official game animal and may be hunted year-round which is an added benefit to hunters and landowners. Rooting the soil with their long, cartilaginous snout often causes erosion problems, destroys irrigation, and damages native plant and animal species .
Feral hogs can quickly destroy field crops such as hay, corn, milo, peanuts, and melons.
Ground nesting birds, and other vertebrates also fall victim to hogs feeding behavior. Controlling feral hogs is very difficult because they are primarily nocturnal, they reproduce quickly, and they possess keen senses of smell and hearing that allow them to quickly detect enemies. Deer processors also use feral hog meat provided by hunters for venison sausage. Package hunts and the inclusion of hog hunting on deer leases is an increasing source of income for Texas landowners. References Cited Bartlett, D. and J. Krieger.