The exploding feral hog population is wreaking havoc on states nationwide. Feral hogs, considered a non-native, invasive species, pose a serious threat to both land and wildlife: hogs root land and eat crops, resulting in mounting costs in production losses and land repair. Additionally, native species are forced to compete with the omnivore hogs for food resources, and are at risk for contracting several infectious diseases feral hogs carry, including Leptospirosis, brucellosis and pseudo-rabies.

New to hog hunting? Check out our basic checklist of the steps you should take to prepare for your hunt, and the equipment you should never leave behind.

It’s night in the woods – hog hunting season. How long have you been in ground position, waiting for the familiar sound of a twig snapping under a sow’s hoof? How long have you lying, belly-down in the dirt, waiting for a hog to slink up to the feeder, 200 hundred yards away? How long have you been waiting to take aim, to make the perfect shot?

Hog hunting is a popular pastime for many hunters looking to take on a challenge, and is a sanctioned control method in a number of states with mounting hog populations. Despite the allure for hunters, tracking and taking feral hogs, which are considered a harmful, invasive, and dangerous species, comes with a number of risks. Take a look at these hog hunting safety tips to ensure a safe and productive hunt. New to hog hunting? Check out our hog hunting tips for beginners.

Louisiana’s out-of-control feral hog population is wreaking havoc on the state, leading to a decline in the deer population and causing an upwards of $74 million in damages in 2013 alone.