DNR - Feral Swine

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Feral Swine

Feral Swine in Michigan - A Growing Problem
feral Swine photo

Like other Midwestern states, Michigan is experiencing a growing problem with feral or wild swine. Thirty years ago, there were no feral swine sightings reported in Michigan. By the end of 2011, more than 340 feral swine had been spotted in 72 of Michigan's 83 counties, and 286 have been reported killed. A sow can have two litters a year of four to six piglets. Based on their prolific breeding practices, it is estimated that feral swine in Michigan currently could number between 1,000 and 3,000.

Feral swine are a problem for two main reasons - they can host many parasites and diseases that threaten humans, domestic livestock and wildlife; and they can cause extensive damage to forests, agricultural lands and Michigan's water resources.

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More Information

• A Pickup Load of Pigs: The Feral Swine Pandemic Video
This film, made available by the Mississippi State University Extension Service, addresses the issue of wild pigs as a nuisance species of growing concern. The film discusses the biology, behavior and distribution of wild pigs, and the damage and threats they present to native wildlife, agriculture, forestry and public health in the United States.

• Feral Swine: Damage and Disease Threats (U.S. Department of Agriculture brochure) PDF icon

• Feral Swine video segment from Q1 Buck Pole
This segment from the Q1 Buck Pole TV show looks at Michigan's feral swine problem and what is being done about it.

• Part 413, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act - Transgenic and Nonnative Organisms

• Declaratory Ruling in the Matter of Michigan Animal Farmers Association PDF icon

Hunter and Property Owner Information

• Trapping Training Available for Property Owners

• Rules for Shooting Feral Swine

• Map of Feral Swine Sightings and Kills PDF icon

• Feral Swine Sightings and Kills Report (1/5/12) PDF icon

• Feral Swine Reporting Form (online version for submitting electronically)

• Feral Swine Reporting Form (printable version for submitting via mail or fax) DOC icon