Wild Pigs Wild Pigs
Wild Pig Tracks
Natural History of Wild Pigs
Wild pigs are not native animals in most areas. The wild pigs in most regions are descendants of domestic swine brought here by the original homesteaders. Over the years, some of these domestic animals escaped and went wild. Today, their descendants may be found in various locations.
Pigs can grow to 300 pounds or more. They dig for roots and eat acorns and fallen fruit. They also eat nuts, grasses, fruit, small amphibians, eggs, small mammals, and carrion. In the spring, a litter of piglets is born to each sow. There can be a dozen in the litter. The adult males have tusks and can be aggressive. If you encounter a wild pig while hiking, keep your distance.
They are active dawn and dusk and are strong and agile. They move about in family groups and are strong swimmers and fast runners.
Personal Notes on Wild Pigs
I encountered one rather large sow one night as I drove down a dirt road in the horse campground. It heard me coming, but stood still until I was almost upon it. Then, it sauntered across the road and up a hill.
Some of the pig tracks I’ve found have been huge. One I measured was at least four inches long and very deep. The pigs in my area grow quite large!
Got a wild pig story? E-mail me and tell me about it.
Copyright © 1997. Text and drawings by Kim A. Cabrera
