Domestic Pig vs. Feral Pig

Attribute	Domestic Pig	Feral Pig
Origin	Domesticated from wild boars	Descendants of domestic pigs that have reverted to a wild state
Behavior	Generally docile and social	More aggressive and territorial
Appearance	Varies in color and size, often bred for specific traits	Similar in appearance to wild boars, with longer, coarser hair
Diet	Often fed commercial pig feed	Forages for food in the wild
Habitat	Usually kept in pens or farms	Can be found in various habitats, including forests and grasslands

Physical Characteristics

Domestic pigs, also known as farm pigs, are typically larger in size compared to feral pigs. They have been selectively bred for specific traits such as meat quality and growth rate. Domestic pigs have a more docile temperament and are often raised in controlled environments. On the other hand, feral pigs, also known as wild pigs, are usually smaller in size and have a leaner build. They have adapted to survive in the wild and are known for their agility and speed.

Behavior

Domestic pigs are social animals that thrive in groups. They are known to be intelligent and can be trained to perform various tasks. Domestic pigs are usually more predictable in their behavior due to their domestication. Feral pigs, on the other hand, are more solitary creatures and tend to be more aggressive. They are known to be opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for food in a variety of environments.

Diet

Domestic pigs are typically fed a diet that is high in grains and protein to promote growth and meat quality. They are also given supplements to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. Feral pigs, on the other hand, have a more varied diet that includes roots, tubers, insects, and small animals. They are known to be destructive to crops and natural habitats due to their foraging habits.

Reproduction

Domestic pigs are often bred for specific traits such as litter size and growth rate. They have a shorter gestation period compared to feral pigs and can have multiple litters in a year. Domestic pigs are usually bred under controlled conditions to ensure the health and well-being of the offspring. Feral pigs, on the other hand, have a longer gestation period and typically have smaller litters. They reproduce in the wild without any human intervention.

Habitat

Domestic pigs are raised in controlled environments such as farms and barns. They are provided with shelter, food, and water to ensure their well-being. Domestic pigs are not well-suited to survive in the wild due to their reliance on humans for care. Feral pigs, on the other hand, are found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in different environments without human assistance.

Impact on the Environment

Domestic pigs can have a significant impact on the environment due to their waste production and resource consumption. They are often raised in large numbers on farms, leading to issues such as water pollution and deforestation. Feral pigs, on the other hand, can also have a negative impact on the environment by damaging crops and natural habitats. They are considered an invasive species in many regions and can outcompete native wildlife for resources.