Feral Pig vs. Wild Boar

Attribute	Feral Pig	Wild Boar
Species	Sus scrofa	Sus scrofa
Origin	Domestic pigs that have returned to the wild	Wild species native to Eurasia, North Africa, and the Greater Sunda Islands
Appearance	Varies in color, size, and shape	Typically dark-colored with a bristly coat and prominent tusks
Behavior	Can be aggressive towards humans and other animals	Generally shy and elusive, but can be dangerous when provoked
Habitat	Found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands	Prefer dense forests and wooded areas

Physical Characteristics

Feral pigs and wild boars are both members of the pig family, but they have some distinct physical differences. Feral pigs tend to be smaller in size, with an average weight of around 200 pounds. They have a more slender build and longer legs compared to wild boars. On the other hand, wild boars are larger and more robust, with males weighing up to 500 pounds or more. They have shorter legs and a stockier build, making them more powerful and aggressive in appearance.

Coloration

When it comes to coloration, feral pigs and wild boars also have some differences. Feral pigs typically have a solid color coat, ranging from black to brown to white. They may have some variations in color, but they generally lack the distinct markings found on wild boars. Wild boars, on the other hand, have a more striking appearance with their dark, bristly coats and prominent white stripes running down their backs. These stripes are a key distinguishing feature of wild boars and are not typically seen in feral pigs.

Behavior

Both feral pigs and wild boars are known for their intelligence and adaptability, but they exhibit different behaviors in the wild. Feral pigs are more likely to be social animals, living in groups called sounders. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of foods, including plants, insects, and small animals. Wild boars, on the other hand, are more solitary creatures and tend to be more aggressive. They are known for their fierce nature and will defend themselves and their territory fiercely if threatened.

Habitat

While feral pigs and wild boars can be found in a variety of habitats, they tend to prefer different environments. Feral pigs are more adaptable and can thrive in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They are often found near human settlements, where they can scavenge for food. Wild boars, on the other hand, prefer dense forests with plenty of cover. They are more elusive and tend to avoid areas with high human activity, making them harder to spot in the wild.

Reproduction

Reproduction is another area where feral pigs and wild boars differ. Feral pigs have a shorter gestation period, typically around 114 days, and can have multiple litters in a year. They reach sexual maturity at a younger age, with females able to breed as early as six months old. Wild boars, on the other hand, have a longer gestation period of around 115 days and usually only have one litter per year. They reach sexual maturity later, with females typically breeding for the first time at around 18 months old.

Impact on the Environment

Both feral pigs and wild boars can have a significant impact on the environment, but in different ways. Feral pigs are known for their destructive feeding habits, rooting up vegetation and causing damage to crops and natural habitats. They can also spread diseases to other animals and humans. Wild boars, on the other hand, are more of a threat to native wildlife. They are known to prey on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, and can disrupt ecosystems by outcompeting native species for food and resources.

Control and Management

Due to their impact on the environment and agriculture, both feral pigs and wild boars are often targeted for control and management efforts. Feral pigs are typically controlled through hunting and trapping, as well as the use of exclusion fencing and other deterrents. Wild boars, on the other hand, are more challenging to manage due to their aggressive nature and elusive behavior. They may require more intensive control measures, such as culling programs and habitat modification, to keep their populations in check.