Wild pigs (also known as wild boar) are an invasive species in Canada. They damage farmland, disrupt ecosystems and could spread serious diseases — like African swine fever (ASF).
ASF is a deadly viral disease that affects pigs — not people. While ASF has never been detected in Canada, it continues to spread globally. If introduced here, it could seriously impact pig health, Canadian farmers and the economy.
ASF spreads through contact with infected pigs or pork and through contaminated boots, clothing, hunting gear and vehicles.
As wild pig populations grow, so does the risk. If ASF were introduced into Canada, wild pigs could make it much harder to control, contain and eliminate the disease.
Hunters and harvesters: Help protect Canada's pigs from African swine fever
Hunters and harvesters play an important role in protecting Canada's pigs and farms. They can help by:
- reporting wild pigs in Canada that are alive, sick, dead or showing signs of activity (for example, rooting, tracks, wallows or damage to crops or land)
- knowing the signs of ASF
- keeping gear clean—including boots, clothing and equipment used during hunting or harvesting
- avoiding contact with pigs or farms for 14 days after hunting or harvesting
Signs of ASF
Learn how to spot the signs of African swine fever:
- sudden death or no signs before death
- fever and weakness
- vomiting or diarrhea
- red or blue blotches on skin
- trouble walking or standing
If you see a wild pig showing any of these signs — report it immediately.
How to report wild pigs in Canada
Reporting wild pigs can help with early detection of ASF.
Live, sick or dead wild pigs—and any evidence of wild pig activity—should be reported to your provincial or territorial program.
Hunting abroad in ASF-affected countries
Before returning to Canada check the list of Countries that Canada recognizes as being free from ASF. If a country you are returning from is not on the list, return to Canada with caution and be aware of the following requirements:
- clean and disinfect all boots, clothing and gear used before returning
- avoid any pigs or visiting any pig farms in Canada for 14 days
- declare all meat or animal products at the border
- use designated international waste bins at ports of entry to safely dispose of food scraps and other garbage to prevent wild pigs from accessing contaminated waste in landfills
One contaminated item could introduce the disease. Don't take the risk.