Hiking Safety Tips – What to do when you see a wild hog?
Posted by Jeff on Feb 28, 2015 @ 8:18 am in Hiking News | 0 comments | Last modified: February 28, 2015
Invasive hogs can be aggressive, especially when defending their young. They may weigh up to 300 lbs, have sharp tusks, and can charge very quickly.
- Be alert! Know the signs and tracks of hogs and avoid heavily used areas, especially at dusk or dawn when hogs are most active.
- Avoid water sources that have been used by invasive hogs – humans can contract multiple diseases from water sources contaminated by hogs and their feces.
- Hogs will generally try to avoid contact with humans, but may become aggressive if surprised, especially if piglets are present.
- If you encounter a hog on the trail, re-route your hike to avoid them. If a re-route is not possible, keep a safe distance and wait for the hogs to leave before continuing.
- If faced with an aggressive hog, the best option for protecting yourself is to climb the nearest tree.
- If directly charged by a hog, you should quickly sidestep out of the direction of the charge and climb the nearest tree or boulder.
- If using a firearm to protect yourself from a feral hog, ensure that it has enough knock-down power to be effective (otherwise it may be best to avoid the encounter and move to safety instead).
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