Feral Hogs In Texas — Are They Really A Year-Round Problem?

Feral Hog Behavior in Texas

Feral hogs in Texas are known to be active 365 days a year, with breeding seasons typically occurring between November and January, but can extend into February and March. Female hogs can have two litters per year, each with an average of 5-7 piglets. This rapid breeding cycle contributes to the population growth and makes control efforts more difficult.

Habitat and Distribution

Feral hogs in Texas can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. They are known to roam in large groups and can travel long distances in search of food and suitable breeding grounds. In Texas, feral hogs can be found in at least 200 counties, with the highest populations reported in the eastern and southern parts of the state.

Hunting and Control Efforts

Hunting is a widely accepted and effective method for controlling feral hog populations in Texas. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) recommends using a combination of hunting methods, including trapping and shooting, to manage populations. Additionally, landowners and hunters can take advantage of the state’s free permit program for feral hog hunting, which allows for the culling of up to 5 hogs per person per day. Hunters are also encouraged to report their harvests to help monitor population trends and inform control efforts.