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The Feral Hog in Oklahoma

Second Edition

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Introduction

Oklahomans have enjoyed or cursed feral hogs (Sus scrofa) in the southeastern and eastern parts of the state for several years. Oklahomans in many other areas of the state are following suit. At one time, domesticated hogs were managed as free ranging livestock in parts of the state. These domesticated hogs would often become feral and were hunted or trapped for meat. Managing domesticated hogs as free ranging livestock is not a common practice any more. However, feral hog populations remained and are spreading throughout the state. As feral hog populations have expanded, debate about the pros and cons of their presence has become more intense. Many landowners, especially farmers, cringe at the thought of feral hogs becoming established on their property. Some hunters, on the other hand, look forward to having them on their favorite hunting grounds. To some hunters, the feral hog represents a formidable trophy worthy of paying money to hunt. To some landowners, the potential of leasing feral hog hunting rights makes it a bit easier to accept the presence of the animals. Regardless of landowners' and hunters' opinions, feral hogs have proven their ability to survive and procreate, and will probably be around for a while.

All photos by R.L. Stevens except where noted.

This publication is a creative work fully protected by all applicable copyright laws, as well as by misappropriation, trade secret, unfair competition, and other applicable laws. Except for appropriate use in critical reviews or works of scholarship, the reproduction or use of this work in any form or by any electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented, including photocopying, digital imaging, and in any information storage and retrieval system is forbidden without express permission of the authors.

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Russell Stevens served as the strategic consultant manager and a wildlife and range consultant at Noble Research Institute. He received a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology from the Southeastern Oklahoma State University and a master’s degree in animal science (range and wildlife option) from Angelo State University.