Can feral hogs be trained to respond to calls or bait?

Training Feral Hogs to Respond to Calls

Training feral hogs to respond to calls or bait is an art that requires dedication and time. It’s essential to start with a small group of hogs and allow them to become familiar with the caller and the bait. In one study, it took an average of 12 days to train feral hogs to respond to a caller in a controlled environment. A common technique used to train hogs is to start with a small, high-value bait and gradually increase the distance and difficulty level. This approach helps hogs associate the caller with food, making them more responsive.

Using Trained Hogs for Feral Hog Control

Trained feral hogs can be used as decoys to lure other hogs into a controlled area, such as a trapping corral or a night hunting setup. When used correctly, trained hogs can increase the success rate of feral hog control efforts. For example, a study in Texas found that using trained hogs as decoys increased the number of hogs harvested per night hunting trip from 1.2 to 4.5. To maximize the effectiveness of trained hogs, it’s crucial to understand their social structure and hierarchy, as dominant hogs may be more likely to respond to bait or calls.

Thermal Imaging and Helicopter Hunts

Thermal imaging technology can be used in conjunction with trained hogs to locate and track feral hogs during helicopter hunts. By using thermal cameras to detect hogs’ body heat, hunters can locate them in dense vegetation or at night, when they would be difficult to spot with the naked eye. When combined with trained hogs, thermal imaging technology can significantly increase the success rate of helicopter hunts. In a study in Louisiana, the use of thermal imaging technology during helicopter hunts increased the number of hogs harvested per hour from 0.5 to 2.5.