Alabama agricultural producers’ experiences with wild pigs (Sus scrofa) and their preferences concerning wild pig management

Abstract

ABSTRACT Government agencies and landowners use a variety of lethal methods to reduce invasive wild pig populations and resulting agricultural damages. To provide decision-makers with information regarding Alabama farmers’ experiences with wild pigs and their preferences for management actions, we surveyed Alabama Farmers Federation members in 2020. We found that wild pigs were commonly present on livestock, timber, and crop production acreage, but wild pig damages and costs were much more common among crop producers. Respondents’ wildlife acceptance capacity for wild pigs was low and all lethal control methods were considered acceptable by most respondents, particularly those performed by landowners. While there is likely a consensus among Alabama farmers that wild pig numbers need to be reduced within the state, managers should continue to build support by working closely with crop producers and by addressing potential concerns regarding the implementation of methods by government agencies in future initiatives and outreach.