In March, a manuscript Wild Pig Behavioral Response to Aerial Gunning in Southwest Georgia, U.S.A., was published online in the 31st Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings. This paper explores wild pig behavior and different intervals before and after a helicopter aerial gunning event in Calhoun County, Georgia. Researchers hypothesized that aerial gunning would result in increased wild pig detections within closed canopy forests and that aerial gunning would affect wild pig activity patterns. As discussed in the manuscript, researchers found evidence to support both predictions.

Trapping to remove large groups is the most efficient way to combat this destructive species, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division. And now, thanks to a new program, you can potentially win a big-value prize for participating in the Hog Down Awards Program!

Federal, state and local stakeholders convened on March 27 to address the growing issue of, and innovative solutions to address, feral swine in Georgia. The event was hosted by the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (the District) and held at the Jones Center at Ichauway in Newton, Georgia.

On February 27, the Early County Rotary Club presentation centered on the issue of feral swine in the community. The presentation was covered by the Early County New Rotary Report.

Wild pigs are an invasive species in the United States, with population estimates exceeding 6 million across 31 states. Wild pig damage to agriculture, private property and natural resources exceeds $150 million annually in Georgia.