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Feral Pigs
Sus scrofa
-28.8427, 152.005
Field Notes
Description:
Pigs were brought from Europe to Australia by the First Fleet in 1788. Imported as livestock, pigs soon escaped and established wild populations that have expanded over time. Today, it is estimated that Australia has up to 24 million feral pigs. They are among Queensland’s most widespread and damaging pest animals. Feral pigs spread weeds, degrade soil and water, prey on native species, damage crops and livestock, and carry diseases. (Queensland Government website - Restricted invasive animals). I spotted five animals on this encounter, and on my last walk I spotted one. I've walked many areas of this national park over the past few year, but have only ever seen pigs in this eastern section. They seem to prefer the less-rocky terrain, leaning more towards the open woodland and grassy meadows, plus the swampy areas along the creek system. Females and juveniles usually live in small family groups, whereas adult males are more solitary. Two litters of 4-10 piglets can be produced in a year in good conditions. PS: A couple of excellent, comprehensive PDF's with everything you could ever want to know about this species... https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/57277/IPA-FeralP… https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/63926/IPA-Feral-…
Habitat:
These pigs were spotted in an area of dry sclerophyll forest and open meadows, Girraween National Park, southeast Queensland. Here's some park info - http://www.rymich.com/girraween/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Girraween_National_Park
Notes:
The feral pig is a declared Class 2 pest under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002. Landholders must control declared pests on the land under their control. Penalties are applicable to landholders for non-compliance with these provisions.
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