Free-ranging populations of wild pigs (also called feral swine) are present in at least 18 States in this country. Some experts estimate their numbers at over 1 million. Additionally, private landowners in several States have set up enclosed hunting preserves stocked with wild pigs. These wild animals have become popular for sport hunting, but unfortunately, wild pigs can cause a great deal of damage. Hunters, farmers, and landowners should be aware that wild pigs can harbor infectious diseases and can destroy crops, livestock pastures, native plants, and wildlife habitat. Moving wild pigs to new areas or allowing them onto farms that have domestic pigs can have disastrous consequences.