The feral pig problem has spread across the nation and could eventually result in higher prices for food for all consumers, including Kansans. Fortunately, none have been found in Barton County.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the pigs cause agricultural damage resulting in the billions.
In 1982, feral swine were located in the southern states. Now it is estimated they are in 47 states, growing from an estimated two million wild pigs to seven million in 25 years.
Some of the problem has resulted from hunter’s spreading them across the states and the pigs escaping from hunting preserves. Domestic pigs will turn feral after four or five generations, so a problem can result from domestic pigs escaping.
The invasive species has no natural predators and dig up fields. Producing two litters per year, they also spread disease to domestic wildlife.
Feral swine damage is caused at night when the animals are most active. The best way to discover if feral swine are active in the area is to look for signs of rooting, rubbing, wallowing, tracks, and trails. The animals are highly intelligent, nocturnal and very fertile. Sport hunting does not work to control the pigs.
The hogs eat ground nesting birds and baby animals. It has also been reported that they have had dogs killed by the pigs and can become aggressive.  They also eat field crops and native vegetation.
The USDA is aggressively fighting this problem, particularly in Kansas, but help is needed from local landowners.
Much of the country is facing increased feral pig activity, but according to the Wichita Eagle, thanks to aggressive efforts from local USDA officers, the numbers remain at a relatively low level.
However, the work will never be done because the animals refuse to recognize state lines.
Feral pig activity can be reported toll free at 1-866-4487-3297 to the USDA.
KAREN LA PIERRE