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
