Wild hogs have torn up a Bradenton family’s yard. As it starts to warm up, sightings of this invasive species are expected to increase.
“It looks like a plowed field on our yard, we live on 4 acres and they’ve torn up almost half of it,” said Liv Coleman, a Bradenton resident since 2015.
Coleman has been dealing with nightly visits from these unwanted guests.
“We’re not hunters, this is not a problem we can easily take care of,” said Coleman.
She suspects the hogs have been tearing up her property for about a month, leaving her to deal with this mess.
“The problem tends to be when they feed, they will get on these properties and start digging and rotting around really causing a disturbance,” said Adam Brown, a senior officer with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Coleman has reached out to several government organizations in search of a solution.
“They’re recommendations are to shoot the animals if you can because they’re a nuisance to wildlife, put up a fence, or try to scare them away with a motion detector alarm or something like that,” said Coleman.
Hunting the hogs yourself or putting up a fence is not the most practical answer for everyone.
“The best thing is to reach out, there are quite a few companies in the area that provide services to come out and either trap them or eradicate them,” said Brown.
One of those companies is Swamp Mountain Outfitters, who set up a trap in Coleman’s yard this week.
Even with the trap set, Coleman is still feeling uneasy. As development in Manatee county increases, wildlife and suburban life are clashing.
“Hogs will have to try and find a place to roam and a new place to bed down so they will be on the move for sure,” said Brown.
“We’re paying basically for what development is happening on other parts of our community,” said Coleman.
If you see a wild hog in your area, it is extremely important to keep your distance.
“Hogs can actually be very dangerous. If you see them back away don’t try and approach them, don’t try and feed them,” said Brown.
He says you are within your right to shoot and kill the hogs humanely, as long as you ensure you’re allowed to discharge a firearm on the property.
