Wild hogs have known to become a problem in Alabama. They are fun to hunt but be careful because if you think you have killed one just when you walk up on a downed hog they jump and attack if they are not down completely. A hog or feral hog as we see most often will grow to be very large animals. They have a shield as to say on their shoulders that act as a steal plate of Armour. This is to protect them.
A hog can be a good thing or a bad thing. They will destroy any crops that can be found but also will eat snakes as a meal. They use their snouts more ways than we think. A hog can smell very well and sense things you may not think. Alabama’s wild hog population has grown tremendously over the past few years.
The Upper Delta (WMA) and Lowndes (WMA) hold quit a few wild hogs on their lands. There are hogs taken every year that weigh in at 150 lbs and larger. Lowndes (WMA) holds most of it’s hogs on the south road hunting area. I have hunted here for hogs, deer, and turkey in this area many times before. I can’t say that I have hunted the Upper Delta before but have talked to many hunters who have taken many hogs off this tract of land.
Hogs also carry diseases that can make you sick. Take extra care when cleaning these animals. As a hunter, you can protect yourself and your family from diseases commonly found in wild hogs. Use safe field dressing techniques when handling a hog. Wear latex gloves and wash your hands as much as possible when done. Also make sure to follow food safety tips when preparing the meat. Wash and clean the meat thoroughly and soak the meat in salt water to take out the wild taste and draw out any unwanted blood. If you get sick with a flu-like illness, tell your doctor that you hunt wild hogs.
To contact your state wildlife agency for information about wild hogs, visit: State Fish and Wildlife Agencies and for more information about wild hog damage management, visit: USDA Wildlife Services or call toll free at 1-866-4-USDA-WS.
Stay Healthy on Your Hunt!
And Good Luck!