New research from the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program and the National Wildlife Research Center reveals feral hogs are responsible for over $1.6 billion in agricultural damage annually across 13 US states.
The invasive animals, now present in more than 35 U.S. states, cause extensive crop and livestock losses due to their high reproductive rates and adaptability. Surveys of over 11,000 crop producers and 8,000 livestock operators show damages across key commodities and livestock sectors, including $203.1 million in crop losses and $85 million in livestock-related losses.
Feral hogs impact agriculture beyond direct consumption, affecting planting decisions, damaging infrastructure, spreading disease, and increasing labor and veterinary costs.
Photo Credit: Bowhunter
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