THE IMPACT AND MANAGEMENT OF FERAL PIGS IN THE HERBERT CANE GROWING REGION OF NORTH QUEENSLAND

THE DAMAGE caused by feral pigs (Sus scrofa) in Wet Tropics canegrowing regions can be significant, with losses in cane proceeds exceeding $1M in certain years within the Herbert region. The management of the pest is difficult due to the landscape in which the feral pigs are found, the varying success of hunting, baiting and trapping activities and the overall intelligence of the pest being managed. In the Herbert, community partners have invested in managing this pest through a coordinated regional approach and research. The group utilises a multiple approach to manage feral pigs within the landscape through the use of GIS, genetic mapping and targeted on-ground activities. This paper will report on approaches adopted by the group and the research findings to date undertaken by the community partnerships group and funded by an SRA research project.