More Than 1,800 Feral Pigs Removed From Land Between the Lakes in 2026

A big problem I hadn't read much about recently is still a huge headache for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and, well, anyone who's had to deal with a certain problematic invasive species that's been overdue for a "clearing out".

Feral Pigs in Kentucky

I watch a lot of animal mini-documentaries and have drawn conclusions about which ones I wouldn't mind having an up-close encounter with. Feral pigs are not among them. They're destructive, they spread disease, and they alter natural habitats as only invasive species can do.

Feral Pig Removal

Well, during the first three months of 2026, the KDFWR has put its foot down by removing more than 1,800 wild pigs from Land Between the Lakes. The removal efforts began in January, and the operation was conducted by USDA APHIS Wildlife Services, who employed thermal imaging technology and aerial removal equipment to flush out the pigs. The green lines illustrate the helicopter flight paths.

Feral Pig Invasion

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has created a page where you can report sightings of feral pigs. Appropriately enough, it's called "Squeal on Pigs."  While removal of these wild animals is a major initiative for the KDFWR, the agency, in the strongest of terms, discourages shooting them.

According to Kentucky Fish & Wildlife, feral pigs were transported into Kentucky via pickup trucks and released illegally for hunting purposes. KDFWR also says that many of the pigs were released when their owners realized they couldn't care for them any longer.

To report feral pigs, you may call the agency's information center, submit an online form, or download the "Squeal on Pigs!" mobile app.

[SOURCE: LEX18-Lexington]