MIRAMAR, Fla. – In a Miramar neighborhood that is normally quiet, feral hogs have embarked on a relentless quest for sustenance, wreaking havoc and leaving destruction in their path.
David Prendergast, a resident of Harbour Lake Estates, described the scene Monday that has left many residents concerned.
“They scratch the grass, they make big holes, they tear everything up!” he said.
Prendergast is just one among many residents of Harbour Lake Estates who have encountered these wild hogs. As they ravage the landscapes, the primary concern is the safety of children in the area.
“There are kids in here,” Prendergast emphasized. “What they did was at nighttime, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t come out in the day also.”
Neighbors have captured images of these animals, mostly spotted at night and often in small groups. The sudden presence of these hogs raises questions around the area.
But the recent invasion has left many wondering why the wild hogs are appearing in the area now.
Matt Jones, a trapper with Animal Rangers, shed some light on the situation.
“We as a company have removed them out of Sarasota, Saint Lucie County, trickling down this way, and now it seems we are finally getting them in Broward, he said. “Feral hogs are not just a nuisance; they are ‘The Nuisance.’ Land damaging, property damage, attacks on pets.”
In response to the problem, Jones advises contacting wildlife experts. While trapping and euthanizing the hogs is the usual course of action, addressing the issue promptly is crucial.
“Feral hogs are a problem that if we don’t address it now, trust me, it blooms into a much bigger issue,” warned Jones.
Residents who say they’re considering taking matters into their own hands should reconsider. In Florida, hunting wild hogs requires a license or permit, and poisoning them is illegal.
Regarding the community’s response, a board member of the community’s HOA confirmed that efforts are underway to remove the animals from the area.