Wild hogs are causing chaos in an Irving, Texas community, leaving residents exasperated by the extensive damage to their properties. A group of up to ten hogs has been digging up lawns and scattering garbage left for collection, according to WFAA. Homeowners' efforts to repair their yards have been futile, as the hogs repeatedly return to cause further destruction.
One resident, Eric Mendez, described setting up a camera after noticing signs of digging and being surprised to find a whole group of hogs, some quite large, responsible. The hogs' destructive behavior has also impacted other properties in the area, including Barbara Bush Middle School.
The City of Irving has acknowledged the problem and engaged a wildlife specialist to handle the situation. Officials suspect the hogs are originating from a wooded area near Grapevine Creek.
Feral hogs are a significant problem in Texas, causing an estimated $400 million in damage annually, with national costs reaching approximately $1.5 billion, according to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
While landowners can hunt feral hogs on their property without a license, a hunting license is required for public land. Residents in Irving considered shooting the hogs but ultimately decided against it due to the risks of discharging firearms in a residential area.
Instead, they have resorted to non-lethal methods like slingshots and noisemakers to deter the animals. Feral hogs are known to attack pets and humans if they feel threatened, and their rapid reproduction rate contributes to the ongoing issue.
