Feral swine are still posing threats and spreading disease to wild as well as domestic animals. To be sure of what the eradication plans in your area are, please be sure to visit your local DNR page for updates.
Michigan DNR Feral Swine
Watch the video here :
A Pickup Load of Pigs: The Feral Swine Pandemic Video
Here are 10 facts about them:
1. A feral swine is a free-ranging pig considered an exotic animal and a public nuisance. They are believed to be a derived from wild European boar, escaped domestic pigs or a hybrid of the two.
2. The state wants the animals gone for good. Legislation passed last June declared feral pigs a nuisance in Michigan. Animal control officers, law enforcement, individuals with a concealed pistol permit and those with hunting licenses can shoot and kill the animals on public or private property. Property owners can shoot the animals on their own property without a hunting license.
3. The wild swine threaten domestic livestock, wildlife, the environment and individuals, according to the MDNRE website.
4. In Michigan, the pigs have been spotted in the majority of the state’s 83 counties.
5. Around the country, the pigs have been identified in 40 states.
6. Feral swine can carry up to 30 viral and bacterial diseases and up to 37 diseases that affect wildlife, pets and people.
7. Female swine can breed at 6 months old and can have as many as 2 litters of piglets per year with between 4 and 12 piglets per litter.
8.The animals eat just about anything, from crops to live animals.
9.The animals can be aggressive, particularly if it is a sow with piglets.
10.Sightings, kills and suspected damage from feral swine can be reported to the DNRE at (517) 336-5030 or Rosej3@michigan.gov.
-Source, Washtenaw County MSU Extension and MDRNE


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