PARENT SESSION

Conservation 3 -- Session Chair: Patrick Kelly-- University Center, Kate Buchanan Room

POPULATION DYNAMICS AND RECENT EXPANSION OF WILD PIGS IN CALIFORNIA. Ron E. Loggins and Rick A. Sweitzer. University of North Dakota, Department of Biology, Grand Forks, ND, USA.

ABSTRACT- Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) were introduced to California in the 1700's and are now widespread as feral populations throughout California where their rooting and other activities seriously disrupts native ecosystems. Using hunter-killed pig tag returns we have modeled the range expansion of wild pigs in California and linked this expansion to habitat type and availability. Wild pigs are expanding their range as a result of natural biological expansion and as a result of intentional human introductions in some areas. Areas of expansion are closely linked to the extent of oak woodland habitat in the state. The expansion of this disruptive vertebrate pest is of significant ecological concern since many threatened or endangered species occur in the area occupied by wild pigs.

KEY WORDS: Range Expansion, Wild pigs