The news this Fall that a population of Feral Hogs was confirmed in Montana, sent a shockwave through the ag industry.
In a state that has been on high alert for feral swine outbreaks for several years, suddenly the word came that dozens of wild hogs were reported ranging in a brushy waterway along Montana’s Hi-Line.
Feral swine are an invasive, non-native species, considered one of the worst invasive species in the world. They are prolific breeders, they are highly adaptable, and can cause devastating impacts.
Feral Hogs in Capture Pen
We know how damaging wild hogs have been in other states, including North Dakota. And we are aware of another population of wild hogs that is spreading to the north of us in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. But we thought Montana was still free of this menace.
- Where were they found in Montana?
- How many wild hogs are at that location?
- How did those hogs get there?
- How do we deal with them? Can they be eradicated?
In this podcast Taylor Brown dives into those questions and a lot more, with Montana State Veterinarian, Dr. Tahnee Szymanski, who activated the team at the Montana Department of Livestock, to respond to what might be the largest reported outbreak of Feral Swine in Montana’s history.
Montana has been aggressive in its approach to this invasive species. Here is a link to the current Fact Sheet that describes Montana’s concern, with the facts and the laws on Feral Swine; including what to watch for, and how to participate in Montana’s “Squeal on Pigs” campaign.
Dr. Tahnee Szymanski, Montana State Veterinarian
Listeners are urged to call 406-444-2976, or go to www.SquealonPigsMT.com, if you spot swine running at large.
Loading Feral Hogs in Phillips County
