Public Asked to Report Feral Swine Sightings

| 11/19/2012

State animal health and wildlife officials are asking people to report any sightings of feral swine, otherwise known as wild pigs.

"We are asking farmers, ranchers, hunters, hikers, campers and others to report any sightings of feral swine," said Dr. Susan Keller, the state veterinarian. "Feral swine threaten domestic pigs and other livestock because they can carry diseases such as brucellosis, tuberculosis, pseudorabies and swine fever. They can also destroy crops and property."

Keller says that wild swine has been reported in North Dakota in the past and have been spotted recently in neighboring states.

She adds that it is illegal to possess live feral swine and to hunt or trap the animals. Landowners can destroy the animals if they threaten their property. However, they must report the animals to the state veterinarian`s office as soon as possible. They are also required to follow procedures on handling, preservation and disposal of the carcasses.

Sightings can be reported to state veterinarian`s office at 701-328-2655 or the North Dakota Game and Fish Department at 701-328-6300.

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