OHIO – Feral invasive non-native pigs were introduced as livestock in the 1500s in America, and eventually some of them escaped starting a invasion across over 36 states with a estimated 5 million in existence.
Feral swine in Ohio can have 2 litters with 5-6 piglets per year? Just one feral sow can create a large, highly invasive, and destructive population in one year. Feral swine cause significant damage to agricultural crops and natural resources. While feral swine populations have not naturally expanded into Ohio, occasional escapes or illegal releases occur.
It is critical to detect and report feral swine to protect our land and wildlife. ODNR encourages farmers and landowners to contact U.S. Department of Agriculture APHIS Wildlife Services at 1-866-4USDA-WS for free assistance to address feral swine damage on their property and report any sightings.
