Abstract

Geospatial Mapping of Feral Hog Activity in Louisiana and Mississippi
Track: Parks, Natural Reserves, Fisheries, and Wildlife Management
Authors: Steve Hartley

Wild swine [Feral hogs (Sus scrofa domestica)] are arguably the most serious mammalian invasive species on federal lands. Wild swine are in direct conflict with goals to manage lands for natural and healthy ecosystems. Throughout the southern United States their foraging activities have been documented to adversely affect wetlands, restoration plantings, endangered and threatened species, and significantly alter plant community composition. Louisiana feral swine populations have existed since the 1500s when explorer Hernando De Soto brought swine with his expeditions. However, little is known about their movement patterns, populations and habitat destruction within Louisiana and Mississippi. This study will use hybrid radio and satellite GPS tracking collars on wild boar and feral swine to 1) track their movement patterns on the landscape, 2) leverage higher removal rates and 3) to facilitate removals under conditions otherwise not possible. This technique is known as the Judas Pig system.