Squeal on Pigs
Protecting Alberta’s Environment and Pork Industry
Wild boar at large
Wild boar at large – also called feral pigs – are one of the most damaging invasive species in Canada. Alberta’s Squeal on Pigs program helps raise awareness around this invasive species and supports the Wild Boar Control program by encouraging the public to report sightings of Wild Boar-at-Large or evidence of Wild Boar-at-Large.
For pork producers, these animals pose a serious threat to farmland, livestock health, and biosecurity. Reporting wild boar sightings is a simple but powerful way to protect Alberta’s environment and the pork industry.
How to Report
If you see wild boar or signs of their activity—such as rooting, tracks, or wallows—report it right away. Early detection prevents further spread and helps wildlife officers remove entire groups before they reproduce.
In Alberta:
- Report sightings online: Report Wild Boar at Large
- Call 310-FARM (3276)
- Email wildboar@gov.ab.ca
- Through AISC’s free invasive species reporting app, EDDMapS
- Learn more about the Wild Boar Control Program
Do not approach or hunt wild boar.
Provide as much detail as possible, including photos, GPS coordinates, or nearby landmarks.
Why It Matters to Producers
Wild boar are more than a nuisance, they’re a risk to your operation and our industry’s sustainability.
Crop and land damage
Rooting and digging destroy pastures, crops, and wetlands, causing soil erosion and costly losses.
Water contamination
Their wallowing in wetlands and riparian zones degrades water quality and affects nearby livestock watering sources.
Wildlife competition
Wild boar outcompete native wildlife, disturb nesting sites, and threaten biodiversity.
Disease threat
Wild boar can carry serious livestock diseases which would devastate Canada’s pork sector if introduced. Wild boar at large pose serious risk to the domestic hog and beef industry because of the potential for disease transmission to hogs and cattle. Wild boar at large are known to host 39 different diseases that can be transmitted to livestock, humans and wildlife, some of which come with big consequences.
Remember: Recreational hunting of wild boar is not an effective control method. Unlike with other species, hunting of Wild Boar-at-Large scatters the animals and makes control efforts harder. Whole sounder trapping is the most effective management tool.
Environmental Stewardship
By reporting wild boar, producers play a direct role in environmental protection. Controlling this invasive species helps:
- Restore native vegetation and wetlands
- Maintain soil health and water quality
- Protect wildlife habitats
- Reduce the risk of disease transmission to domestic herds
Your vigilance supports Alberta’s broader goals for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
Resources for Producers
Alberta
Squeal on Pigs Alberta: alberta.ca/report-wild-boar
Report Wild Boar at Large: Alberta Reporting Form
Alberta Wild Boar Control Program: Program Overview
Neighbouring Provinces
Saskatchewan: Feral Wild Boar Control Program
Manitoba: Squeal on Pigs Manitoba or call 1-833-SPOT-PIG (1-833-776-8744)
British Columbia: Invasive Species Council of BC – Squeal on Pigs
Ontario: Invading Species Awareness Program – Wild Pigs
National Resources
Wild Pigs Canada: https://www.wildpigs.ca/
Animal Health Canada: Wild Pig Reporting Contacts