After the 2023 wildfires, concerns arise about feral hogs in a specific region of BC.
A group in B.C. is sounding the alarm about the potential consequences of the extensive wildfires in 2023, warning that domestic hogs may have escaped into the wild and become feral.
“Domestic pigs have the ability to turn feral,” explained Robyn Hooper, executive director of the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society. “They could transition into wild animals by simply wandering into the wild and interacting with wild pigs,” as reported by The Epoch Times.
“Currently, it’s mostly anecdotal,” said Hooper. “We are working to gather more concrete information … there’s a possibility that any escaped pigs could establish feral populations.”
Therefore, the group is urging the public to report any sightings of wild pigs or pig-related activities such as tracks, wallows, and rubbing.
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Hooper emphasized that feral hogs can cause significant damage, a sentiment supported by Ryan Brook, a researcher at the University of Saskatchewan tracking the spread of these animals on the Prairies.
According to Brook, “They wreak havoc on crops, consume various items ranging from mice to bird eggs, goslings, ducklings, and even adult deer.” He further explained, “They are highly aggressive, equipped with sharp tusks, posing threats to our crew. They also have the potential to transmit diseases to humans, pets, wildlife, and livestock.”
Given their knowledge and experience, Brook believes the concerns regarding feral hogs in B.C. are valid. He mentioned that even in Saskatchewan with harsh winters, sightings of pink pigs running wild are not uncommon, along with wild boar-like creatures.
