Immediately call the KDFWR to report this damage and inquire about the most effective methods of control.  Pigs can cause extensive amounts of damage in just one night, so it is important to report pigs or damage as quickly as possible. More information on KDFWR removal efforts and trapping assistance can be found by clicking the following link: http://fw.ky.gov/navigation.aspx?cid=976&navpath=C741C921.  Department biologists will work with you to determine the most effective control strategies for your property and promote cooperative efforts with neighboring landowners and others with an interest in eradicating this nuisance species.  

Can I release wild pigs on my property to hunt?

No!  In Kentucky, the KDFWR and Department of Agriculture have specific regulations that strictly prohibit the possession or release of wild pigs in the Commonwealth.  Wild pigs are an exotic, incredibly destructive species that outcompetes native wildlife for food and habitats- this is an animal that we DO NOT want in Kentucky.

What should I do if I witness or obtain information about the release of wild pigs?

During regular working hours, immediately call the KDFWR Info Center at 1-800-858-1549 to report the illegal activity.  If after regular business hours, immediately call the KDFWR Dispatch at 1-800-25ALERT (1-800-252-5378).  Any or all information can be provided anonymously.

Isn’t shooting-on-sight the best strategy for controlling wild pigs? 

While it is legal to kill a wild pig in Kentucky year-round with a hunting license, shooting is actually not an effective control measure.  In Kentucky, wild pig populations are relatively small, isolated, and activity is largely nocturnal.  While shooting lone pigs is beneficial if you have the opportunity, pigs must be removed in larger numbers to stop damage.  Unfortunately, when a lone pig is shot from a group, the remaining pigs are educated, shift their movements, and become increasingly difficult to remove. 

The most effective strategy is to establish a corral trap within the range of a sounder of pigs allowing the removal of most, if not all of the sounder, in a single capture event. 

Where can I hunt wild pigs?

The KDFWR does not promote recreationally hunting this nuisance species.  Throughout the U.S., research and management efforts have shown that hunting  cannot control wild pigs numbers.  Specifically, hunting pressure causes pigs to go nocturnal and actually promotes their spread as pigs seek areas with less human disturbance.  Successful control and removal efforts have very limited success when competing with concurrent pressure from recreational pig hunting.  

Where do wild pigs occur in Kentucky, what counties?

Unfortunately wild pigs can now be found in localized populations across the Commonwealth, primarily the result of illegal releases for recreational hunting opportunities.  In support of effective control efforts to remove this nuisance species, and the desires of impacted landowners, the KDFWR does not provide range maps or contact information for residents affected by wild pigs.  Rather, the KDFWR and cooperators are implementing intensive trapping and removal efforts on those properties in ongoing efforts to remove pigs.   

Does the KDFWR maintain a database of landowners who would like to connect with pig hunters?

No. The KDFWR has received no requests from landowners for assistance with removing pigs by outside hunters.  There is a keen awareness among landowners that most pigs in Kentucky are the result of illegal releases for hunting opportunities. As such, most landowners want to utilize effective methods of control with a goal of eradicating wild pigs rather than offering a continued hunting opportunity. 

Can I hunt wild pigs at night?

No. In Kentucky, only, opossums, raccoons, fishes, and frogs may be taken at night.

Are wild pigs safe to eat?

Biologists have identified at least 45 different parasites and diseases that can be carried by wild pigs and pose risks to livestock, humans, pets, and wildlife. 

As such, the KDFWR strongly recommends that persons wear rubber or latex gloves when dressing, butchering, or preparing wild pigs When thoroughly cooked, however, wild pig meat is safe for consumption.  

Are wild pigs dangerous?

Wild pigs generally avoid people and will even shift movement patterns away from areas of increased human activity.  However, wild pigs are large animals, with sharp tusks, fully capable of defending themselves when cornered or threatened.  Because all wild animals can be unpredictable, it is strongly recommended to give wild pigs the respect they deserve and allow them an opportunity for escape in the event of an unexpected encounter.