Missouri's Crusade to Protect its Lands from Feral Pig Onslaught: Confronting the Tusked Plague

The Missouri Feral Hog Elimination Partnership aims to curb the northward expansion of destructive feral pigs in Missouri.

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In 2022, a total of 6,289 feral hogs were removed, marking a decrease from the previous year.

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Officials view the decline in pig eradication as a positive trend, indicating the success of intensified efforts and a reduction in the hog population.

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The feral pig populations are concentrated in the southern part of Missouri, particularly the Ozark region.

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Trapping methods are the primary approach used by the Missouri Feral Hog Elimination Partnership to capture entire sounders of pigs.

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Hunting is discouraged as an effective control method due to the scattering of pigs and potential spread to new areas.

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The partnership collaborates closely with private landowners, utilizing large ground traps, employing full-time hog trappers, and utilizing drones for night operations.

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Feral pigs pose various problems, including disease transmission, crop damage, habitat destruction, and competition with native species for resources. The goal of the partnership is to reduce the feral pig population in Missouri.

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