The Montana Department of Livestock is investigating reports of potential feral swine in Phillips County after local residents discovered animal activity initially believed to be from a bear. Further inspection revealed tracks, rooting, and other signs pointing directly to pigs.
Officials confirmed the animals involved were domestic swine that had escaped confinement and were showing feral-like behavior. Under Montana law, pigs cannot live in a feral state or roam at large, and the department is taking swift action to ensure these animals do not establish a wild population.
A Coordinated Response
The Department of Livestock is working with local landowners, USDA Wildlife Services, Veterinary Services, and Fish, Wildlife & Parks to locate and capture the pigs. Any healthy animals trapped will be processed through a non-profit meat program to make use of the protein rather than destroy it.
State Veterinarian Dr. Tahnee Szymanski emphasized the importance of removing the animals quickly to prevent them from reproducing and spreading:
“Removing these animals is essential to stop them from becoming an established population of feral swine.”
Why It Matters
Feral swine cause significant agricultural and environmental damage. They root and wallow through fields, pastures, and wetlands, destroy crops, and compete with wildlife for food. More importantly, they can carry diseases that threaten livestock, pets, wildlife, and even people.
Montana remains one of the few states without a confirmed feral swine population — and officials intend to keep it that way. Producers and residents are being asked to report any sightings or signs of wild pigs immediately to state authorities.
Feral swine may seem like a distant problem, but one loose herd can turn into an ongoing battle for farmers and ranchers. Montana’s rapid response underscores how vigilance and quick coordination can protect both agriculture and the environment.
