Hogs have the potential to damage property, destroy the marshlands, and even spread diseases.
"They are carrying diseases, we are testing them now and collecting blood samples," said John Robinette, a biologist with LDWF.
Robinette said the rapid increase of these feral hogs is due to people releasing them into the wild at a very rapid rate.
"They breed at rapid rates as well," said Robinette. "They usually have two litters a year and 10 to 12 of them per litter."
A new piece of legislation is expected to give hunters more time to catch the hogs and put a dent in the population increase.
"This measure will allow hunters to hunt for feral hogs, coyotes, beavers, nutria, at night after legal shooting hours with a shot gun no larger than 10 gage with a buck shot or a smaller shot or a 22," said Marceaux.
The new law goes into effect on February 28th. If residents spot a wild hog that needs to be trapped or picked up, contact the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at (337) 491-2580.
|