Landowner’s Guide

Behavior and Biology

Four biological factors are the main reasons for the rapid growth of Feral Swine populations:  

·  high reproductive potential, 

·  habitat generalization, 

·  wide range in diet, and 

·  low mortality rates.

High Reproductive potential

A major factor contributing to population growth of feral swine is a short reproductive cycle and large litter sizes. Because domestic swine were bred to enhance their reproductive potential, these animals are the most fertile hooved mammal of its size. Feral swine have a gestation period between 112 and 115 days, or about 16 weeks. A typical sow will begin to reproduce at 4 to 6 months of age, and will give birth to two litters per year consisting of 4 to 6 piglets per litter, but can vary as high as 13 piglets in a litter.

Habitat Generalization

Feral swine are highly adaptable and have been found in mountainous areas, forests, salt and brackish swamps and marshes, old growth pine forests, semi-arid brush habitats, tropical rain-forests, and more. Research shows that feral swine are most consistently found in moist areas where mast— acorns and other nuts— are available.

Feral swine are also highly mobile and nomadic, which has allowed them to spread into at least 42 states since their introduction into the United States.

wide range in Diet

Feral swine are opportunistic omnivores. This means they will consume almost anything from mast crops and agriculture crops to grub worms and carrion. Although wild pigs are not predators, they will consume deer fawns, eggs of ground nesting birds, livestock, and many other food items although the carnivorous portion of their diet generally constitutes less than 2%.

The diet of feral swine varies seasonally, corresponding to plants availability. When leafy and fruit portions of plants are unavailable, feral swine will feed on the roots. Feral swine will also feed on grass, acorns, pecan, peanuts, carrots, potatoes and many wild plant species.

Low Mortality rates

The mortality rate in the feral swine population is low. This is due to few natural predators and their social structure, but where they occur, black bears, coyotes, and alligators will prey on feral swine. Feral swine are most vulnerable to predation when they are young—40 lbs and less—but these familial groups (known as sounders) provide protection for the young and reduce the number of individuals taken by predators. The majority of the mortality within the feral swine population comes from human activities such as hunting, trapping, or vehicle collision. Mortality rates related to disease and parasites are unknown in feral swine populations but are suspected to be high.