This image shows a European Wild Hog in sedges near a marsh. Sus scrofa is the parent species to the domestic hogs we raise and consume for food. Pigs belong to the order Artiodactyla which means even-toed ungulates. These creatures walk on their third and fourth digits which are flanked by the smaller second and fifth digits. Artiodactyls include camels, hippopotamuses, deer, giraffes, sheep, goats, cattle and antelopes. Sometimes this group is called the cloven-hoofed mammals.

Wild Hogs are a nuisance species in Texas because they breed throughout the year and can produce litter sizes averaging between 3 and 12 piglets. Their long lifespan of 5- 20 years means that one female could add 15 to 240 individuals to the population.

Since they are omnivores, they feed on roots, nuts, grain, plant stems, insects and their larvae, other small animals and even carrion. Thus, they can become destructive to farmers when a large band decides to eat their crops.

Furthermore, they pose a traffic hazard along highways where individuals and family groups can be found crossing roadways. These large mammals can create serious problems for motorists because they are most active in the early morning and evening when the light conditions make them difficult to see.

Since there are few or no natural predators, wild hog populations expand. Some folks hunt these animals for food. Some landowners shoot them and leave them for the vultures. Wild hogs can pose a danger to humans who encounter them while on foot. Your best bet is to leave them alone and withdraw from where they are without upsetting them because they will attack when they feel threatened.

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