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Endangered Pygmy Hog Population Soars
13 Sep
Summary
- Pygmy hog population rose from six in 1996 to 194 by September 2026.
- The species is the world's smallest and rarest wild pig.
- A goal is set to reach 300 pygmy hogs by 2040 for survival.
The population of the endangered pygmy hog has seen a significant resurgence in Assam, India. From a mere six individuals recorded in 1996, the numbers have now reached 194, a testament to sustained conservation efforts. This recovery is considered a major comeback for the grassland health indicator species.
The pygmy hog, standing about 25 cm tall and weighing up to 9.7 kg, is recognized globally as the world's smallest and rarest wild pig. The ambitious goal is to increase their numbers to 300 by the year 2040, enabling the species to thrive independently.
Initiated in 1971 by British naturalist Gerald Durrell, the Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme (PHCP) involves key collaborators like the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and the Assam Forest Department. Reintroductions into the wild began in 2008, and the hogs are now present in several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
