SAN ANTONIO – For decades feral hogs have been a problem in almost every rural part of Texas.
However, with the hog population running out of food and water due to the persistent drought, the unwelcome intruders are now making their way into more urbanized areas of the state, including San Antonio neighborhoods.
UTSA, Texas A&M San Antonio and Palo Alto College have all reported problems with the feral hogs tearing up property and wreaking havoc on landscaping.
Experts with the Texas AgriLife Extension Office say a pack of wild hogs can easily do thousands of dollars in damage in just a few days to property if unchecked.
Since hogs are omnivores, they will eat just about anything from grubs and roots to pet food and other animals. Hogs have a keen sense of smell and will be drawn to pet food that is left outside.
The problem with feral hogs in urban areas is that they are much harder to hunt due to firearms restrictions within the city limits. Trapping in the preferred method, but that relies on baiting and catching the hogs.
The extension says while the hogs can serve as a food source since they can be eaten, the hogs are also known to carry several diseases including swine brucellosis which can be transferred to humans. In addition, feral hogs, like other wild animals, are potentially very dangerous and can attack people or pets.
