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About
About
Feral pigs (Sus scrofa) have been in Australia since European settlement, with the first recorded release by Captain James Cook at Adventure Bay, Bruny Island, in 1777. Initially introduced as livestock, many pigs escaped or were deliberately released, leading to the establishment of wild populations. By 1880, they were already considered a serious pest in parts of New South Wales.
These invasive animals cause significant damage to Australian agriculture. They prey on newborn lambs, destroy crops, damage fences, foul water sources, and compete with livestock for food. Their impact costs farmers millions of dollars annually.
Beyond economic losses, feral pigs pose a serious biosecurity risk. They are potential carriers of diseases, including foot-and-mouth disease, which could devastate Australia's livestock industry. As feral pigs now occupy nearly 45% of the country, this means they pose a significant threat.
Control methods
Control methods
We can help you develop a control program suitable for your property using current best practice methods. Fill out this form and we will contact you as possible. Please note that as we are a small team, you may not receive a same-day reply.
Chemical
Chemical
There are strict laws and regulations on using poisoned baits such as Hoggone, 1080 and strychnine to control feral and invasive animals. PHBG has Hoggone bait boxes available to borrow.
Physical
Physical
Physical control methods for feral and invasive animals in Australia requires adherence to local regulations and consideration of animal welfare standards.
Best practice methods are:
Trapping: Large, heavy-duty traps are used to capture feral pigs. Free feeding before setting traps increases success rates. Once captured, pigs must be humanely euthanised to prevent relocation and further spread.
Exclusion fencing: Well-constructed fencing can prevent feral pigs from accessing valuable agricultural land. Electric or reinforced fences are particularly effective in protecting crops and livestock from pig damage.
Ground shooting: Shooting is effective for reducing local pig populations, particularly in accessible areas. It should be conducted by trained professionals using high-powered rifles to ensure humane euthanasia. Aerial shooting from helicopters is also used for large-scale control in remote regions.
PHBG has Matlock, Pig Brig or Trackers Traps as options for landowners to borrow. The best option will depend on the landscape. We can work with you to determine which will best suit your situation. Enquire via this form.
Biological
Biological
There are currently are no effective biocontrol methods for managing feral pig populations in Australia.
Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs)
Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs)
Trapping of feral pigs [Website] (PestSmart)
Baiting of feral pigs with sodium fluoroacetate (1080) [Website] (PestSmart)
Additional Resources
Additional Resources
Factsheets
Factsheets
Glovebox Guide to Managing Feral Pigs (Pestsmart)
The facts of 1080 baiting (Pestsmart)
National Code of Practice for the Humane Control of Feral Pigs (PestSmart)
Videos
Videos
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