The exploding feral hog population is wreaking havoc on states nationwide. Feral hogs, considered a non-native, invasive species, pose a serious threat to both land and wildlife: hogs root land and eat crops, resulting in mounting costs in production losses and land repair. Additionally, native species are forced to compete with the omnivore hogs for food resources, and are at risk for contracting several infectious diseases feral hogs carry, including Leptospirosis, brucellosis and pseudo-rabies.

Hog hunting is a popular pastime for many hunters looking to take on a challenge, and is a sanctioned control method in a number of states with mounting hog populations. Despite the allure for hunters, tracking and taking feral hogs, which are considered a harmful, invasive, and dangerous species, comes with a number of risks. Take a look at these hog hunting safety tips to ensure a safe and productive hunt. New to hog hunting? Check out our hog hunting tips for beginners.

Lawmakers in North Carolina and Pennsylvania are fighting for the state to allow Sunday hunting in an attempt to eradicate centuries-old laws which they say hinder economic growth and impede on basic homeowner rights.

Hog hunting is becoming increasingly popular in the southern Gulf States, where the feral hog population is growing at an alarming rate. A non-native species, feral hogs are aggressive animals that breed quickly and threaten the safety of native wildlife and crop. The current estimated feral hog population in the United States is in the millions; Texas alone currently has a population of almost 2.6 million. With the hog’s current breeding rate, about 70 percent of the population needs to be eradicated annually to prevent further growth.

Feral hogs are a destructive species which threaten the native wildlife and crop of the states they invade. Their omnivore diet and ability to adapt to environments give them an advantage over native species, and their high rate of reproduction puts residents and landowners at a disadvantage. The current estimated feral hog population in the United States is in the millions.