How are feral swine being eradicated in the Land Between the Lakes?

Feral swine are being eradicated using a combination of ground trapping and aerial operations, including helicopters with infrared technology, during the winter months.

What kind of damage do feral swine cause?

Feral swine cause billions of dollars in economic damage annually, harm ecosystems, threaten native wildlife, and can damage cultural heritage sites.

Are feral swine a threat to public safety?

Yes, feral swine can transmit diseases, become aggressive when threatened, and contribute to vehicle-wildlife collisions, posing risks to humans and other animals.

Home / Environment / Helicopters Join Hunt for Invasive Wild Pigs

Helicopters Join Hunt for Invasive Wild Pigs

5 Mar

•

Summary

Aerial culling with infrared technology aids invasive species control.
Feral swine cause billions in ecological and economic damage annually.
Non-native pigs threaten public safety and cultural sites.

Helicopters Join Hunt for Invasive Wild Pigs

A focused initiative is actively working to eliminate non-native feral swine from the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. This critical effort, involving multiple government agencies, uses advanced techniques, including helicopters with infrared technology, to locate and remove the invasive animals. The aerial culling season began on January 12th, 2026, with a goal to achieve full eradication.

Feral swine pose a significant threat, causing extensive ecological harm, destroying habitats, and reducing native wildlife food sources. Economically, they are responsible for billions of dollars in damages annually across the United States. Furthermore, their rooting behavior can irreversibly damage historical cemeteries and cultural sites, particularly in areas like the LBL with deep historical ties.