Invasive Pigs in B.C.- A Risk to Wildlife and Fish

Invasive Pigs in B.C.- A Risk to Wildlife and Fish

Invasive pigs are spreading across Canada, but B.C. still has a chance to stop them before they take hold. These animals are highly adaptable, making early detection essential.

Why Hunters and Anglers Should Care

Invasive pigs can seriously affect B.C.’s landscapes, wildlife, and waterways. Their rooting and foraging disturb vegetation and the forest floor, reducing food sources for native species like deer, elk, and moose. They also prey on the eggs of ground-nesting birds, along with small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

Waterways and fish habitats are also at risk. Wallowing and rooting erode wetlands and fish-spawning areas, leading to lower water quality and declining fish populations.

Invasive pigs can spread diseases like E. coli and African swine fever (ASF), a deadly virus affecting only pigs. While Canada remains ASF-free, an outbreak would devastate Canada’s pork industry and economy.

Invasive pigs are elusive and often nocturnal, making them hard to spot. Watch for these signs in the field:

» Tracks – Square-shaped prints, different from a deer’s heart-shaped tracks.

» Scat – May contain acorns, grains, hair, scales, or feathers.

» Rooting – Torn-up soil from pigs foraging.

» Wallowing – Muddy areas where pigs cool off and mark territory.

» Rubbing Marks – Scrapes on trees or posts from pigs sharpening tusks.

Pigs vary in appearance from black and bristly to reddish-brown or even pink. Piglets may have stripes or spots that fade as they mature.

Why Hunting Won’t Solve This

While hunting pigs might seem like a solution, it often makes the problem worse. These animals are incredibly smart—pressure them, and they scatter, expanding their range and making control more difficult. Instead, an effective response requires early detection, coordinated action, and public reporting.

B.C. has no known established populations, but their rapid spread across the Canadian prairies has prompted early detection efforts. For instance, in the Chilcotin region, the Invasive Species Council of BC (ISCBC) and the Tsilhqot’in National Government are working together to install wildlife cameras to monitor for signs.

» Report sightings immediately – Use the Report Invasives or iNaturalist apps or contact the B.C. government or ISCBC.

» Check your trail cams – If you capture signs of pigs, send in the images.

» Spread the word – Hunters and anglers are the first line of defense. Let others know what to look for.

» Secure livestock – If you own pigs, use secure double fencing to ensure they can’t escape. Never release pigs into the wild.

B.C. has an opportunity to stay ahead of this issue. Your observations can make a difference. Report sightings and learn more at bcinvasives.ca/SquealOnPigs.

Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the African Swine Fever Industry Preparedness Program.