Distribution and disease prevalence of feral hogs in Missouri

Abstract

No attempts have been made to document the distribution of feral hogs (Sus scrofa) in Missouri. Also, antibody prevalence for pseudorabies virus and swine brucellosis have not been reported from Missouri. Our objectives were to characterize the current distribution of feral hogs in Missouri and to determine prevalence and distribution of feral hogs with antibodies against selected important diseases. We collected feral hog sighting data both from the public and Missouri Wildlife Services and Missouri Department of Conservation wildlife biologists. We determined prevalence of antibodies against pseudorabies virus, swine brucellosis, tularemia, and classical swine fever. From 2000 to 2005, the public reported 115 hog sightings statewide. We evaluated 321 feral hog sera for antibody presence from 1993 to 2005. Antibodies against pseudorabies virus and classical swine fever were not detected; however, 1 feral hog had antibodies against swine brucellosis (0.3% prevalence) and 1 feral hog had antibodies against tularemia (1.3% prevalence). Continued disease surveillance is critical to be able to react to any diseases that are found and eliminate them before they become established in feral hog populations in Missouri.