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Eurasian Boar

Photo by Craig Hicks, Bugwood.org

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Common Name: Eurasian boar
Scientific Name: Sus scrofa
Origin: Europe and Asia

Description

Eurasian boar, also known as feral hogs or feral swine, can include domestic pigs or “pet” pigs that have been released or escaped from captivity and “gone wild”, wild boar (native to Eurasia) that escaped from licensed shooting preserves, or a hybrid cross between domestic pigs and wild boar.

Habitat

As a result of their diverse diet, eurasian boar can occupy a wide range of habitats including agricultural areas, forests, wetlands and suburbs. They are present in over 40 states in the United States, including New York.

Threat

Eurasian boar have very destructive feeding habits, an aggressive nature, the potential to spread disease, and an increasingly growing population. They feed in large quantities on agricultural crops, native vegetation and wildlife. They destroy suitable habitat, cause erosion and damage property.

Management

Management includes relocation, trapping, hunting, poisoning, sterilization and oral contraceptives.

Regional Distribution

Not Present

WNY PRISM Priority

Tier 1 – Raise Awareness

Invasive Species Priorities – Tier Chart

Eurasian boar is a prohibited species in New York State – for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html.

Additional Resources

USDA 2016 Feral Swine Management Report Final