Story perspectives

USDA cuts 1,802 wild pigs, 90% population drop.

6/18/2026

Summary

USDA Removes Pigs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Resources removed 1,802 wild pigs from Land Between the Lakes.
Crews used FLIR-equipped helicopters and aerial gear to locate pigs, targeting female sounder groups.
Surveys showed about a 90% drop in pig numbers, which officials said will aid wildlife.
Trapping will continue until all pigs are gone, reflecting agencies’ commitment to eradication.

Summary

USDA Removes Hogs

USDA APHIS Wildlife Services ran a winter feral-hog removal campaign at Land Between the Lakes from January through March, extending the hunting season.
The hogs descend from 1900s Eurasian wild boars introduced for sport hunting and now include escaped domestic pigs and hybrids.
Flight-path maps show roughly two-thirds of helicopter searches occurred on the Tennessee side of the recreation area.
The maps mark darkened counties as zones with significant feral-hog populations.

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USDA Removes Pigs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Resources removed 1,802 wild pigs from Land Between the Lakes.
Crews used FLIR-equipped helicopters and aerial gear to locate pigs, targeting female sounder groups.
Surveys showed about a 90% drop in pig numbers, which officials said will aid wildlife.
Trapping will continue until all pigs are gone, reflecting agencies’ commitment to eradication.

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