A devastating reality is unfolding for Neville Mattick, a sheep breeder in Central West NSW, where his family has been in the business for an impressive 140 years. Feral pigs are wreaking havoc, devouring 99% of his lambs, leaving him with a mere fraction of his flock.
Mr. Mattick paints a grim picture, describing how feral pigs have learned to "migrate to carnivorous behavior." They've become adept at seeking out protein sources, and his lambs have become easy targets. On some days, he would find 18 to 20 lambs in the paddocks, only to see their numbers dwindle as the pigs feasted overnight.
The impact of feral pigs is not limited to Mr. Mattick's farm. According to a 2020 National Feral Pig Management report, Australia could be home to a staggering 23.5 million feral pigs, outnumbering our human population. Heather Channon, the National Feral Pig Management coordinator, emphasizes the immense environmental and agricultural damage these pigs cause, with an estimated annual cost of $150 million to Australian agriculture.
But here's where it gets controversial... Dr. Channon highlights that feral pigs are intelligent and opportunistic, with a dietary need for at least 15% crude protein for optimal breeding. This leads them to prey on lambs, often learning this behavior from their mothers. She adds, "Often feral pigs, when they're predating, will consume the whole carcass, leaving no trace except the lamb's disappearance."
Mr. Mattick's struggle to control the feral pigs on his property is a testament to their resilience and rapid reproduction. One sow can produce up to 12 piglets per litter, with two litters every 12 to 15 months. Dr. Channon explains, "You need to achieve a 70% annual reduction in pig numbers just to keep populations stable."
And this is the part most people miss... Controlling feral pigs requires a strategic combination of methods, including baiting, aerial shooting, trapping, and ground shooting, all implemented at the right time, scale, and frequency. It's a complex task, and Mr. Mattick is facing a tough decision to change the nature of his farm.
"We were hoping to continue with sheep, as they're a viable animal and quick to recover from drought," he says. "But we're exploring other options, like cattle, biodiversity programs, and renewable energy projects. I don't want to be the generation that fails."
The future of Mr. Mattick's farm is uncertain, but his determination to adapt and diversify is a testament to his resilience. As he navigates this challenging situation, the question remains: What do you think is the best approach to tackle the feral pig problem? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
