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Interesting Background History of Feral Hogs
History of the Feral HogRichards Ranch photo gallery
Jan. 13, 2013
Hogs are taking over Texas, Arkansas, and many other states causing outrageous amounts of damage and danger to humans but one question keeps popping up. "Where do feral hogs come from?". According to Rick Taylor Wildlife Biologist wild feral hogs originated from domestic hogs that were set free usually for the purpose of hunting however his research concludes that the history of the feral hogs can be traced back possibly to early Spanish explorers arriving approx. 300 years ago, settling in Texas and the settlers depended on the hogs using them for cured meat and lard. Many of these hogs were set free or escaped during the fight for Texas independence. When the U.S. and Mexico stopped the hostility in the 1800's the settlers brought more hogs and allowed them to roam freely which quite possibly attributes to the feral hog population we are experiencing today. Russian boars were imported so Texan sportsmen could use them for sport hunting in the 1930's. These Russian boars soon integrated with domestic hogs and other feral hogs which had escaped which also attributes to the original feral hog population which has since grown to alarming proportions attracting state wide attention. "Feral hogs are unprotected, exotic, non-game animals. Therefore, they may be taken by any means or methods at any time of year. There are no seasons or bag limits, however a hunting license and landowner permission are required to hunt them." according to Rick Taylor's report. The USDA states that the feral hogs originated in Eurasia and arrived in the continental U.S. in the 1500's. Read more.. References: 1. The Feral Hog in Texas. Rick Taylor Wildlife Biologist http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_bk_w7000_0195.pdf 2. USDA Invasive Species Profile What other's are viewing |