OLYMPIA — Backcountry travelers in Washington are being asked to watch for feral swine and report immediately any sightings.
“While reports of feral swine in Washington are rare, isolated populations have been found and response has been swift,’’ said Justin Bush, executive coordinator of the Washington Invasive Species Council. “If you come across one, it is important to know that the swine pose a great risk to Washington’s wildlife and agriculture. The Washington Invasive Species Council should be contacted immediately.’’
Feral swine damage shorelines and wetlands, degrading water quality. They prey on ground-nesting birds. Their digging and rooting erodes stream banks, impacts tree regeneration and removes vegetation.
“The threat of wild pigs to agriculture and the livestock industry should not be underestimated,’’said Scott Haskell, the state Department of Agriculture’s assistant state veterinarian. “Feral swine can carry more than 30 diseases and parasites, posing a risk to livestock, pets, wildlife and even people. ’’
Anyone who observes or suspects the presence of feral swine should immediately call at 888-268-9219, or visit www.invasivespecies.wa.gov to submit an online report.
