Photos by Nick Baker

What are they?

The wild boar is a native animal of Singapore which can weigh up to 100kg and has a lifespan of over 20 years. They are omnivorous, but feed mainly on seeds, tubers and young plants. Each female wild boar can start reproducing at 18 months of age and can birth between 4 to 8 piglets, up to twice a year. In nutrients-rich habitats, wild boars can give birth up to 12 piglets per litter. Their quick reproduction rates, presence of ideal foraging habitats and the lack of natural predators all contribute to their population growth.

Read on to find out more or download our advisory here.

Human-wild boar encounters

The increase in the population of wild boars may result in a higher frequency of human-wild boar conflict as they wander into parks, public roads and residential areas. Although they appear shy, they are still wild animals and are unpredictable in behaviour which could pose a risk to public safety.

Like many other wild animals, wild boars will only attack if they are cornered or if they feel threatened.

Female wild boars, when with their young, are very protective and can easily be provoked and feel threatened. The canines in adult males can inflict serious injuries in case of an attack. 

 

Due to their solid body build, wild boars are particularly dangerous and can cause serious damage when involved in vehicular accidents.

 

Damages caused by wild boars

With a lack of natural predators, the wild boar population has increased rapidly and may negatively affect our forests’ regeneration. High numbers of wild boars may also decrease local biodiversity.

Their natural behaviour is to dig up the soil in order to find food, thus damaging tree saplings compromises reforestation and habitat enhancement efforts. These can have negative impacts on the long-term viability of small patches of forests such as our nature reserves if the wild boar population remains unchecked.

 

What to do when I encounter wild boars?

• Be calm and move slowly away from the animal. Do not approach or attempt to feed the animal.
• Keep a safe distance and do not corner or provoke the animal i.e. by using a flash while taking pictures of it.
• If you see adults with young piglets, leave them alone. These are potentially more dangerous because they may attempt to defend their young.
• Do not touch or pick up any sick or dead wild boars. If you do encounter any sick or dead animals, please call the Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 to report these sightings.

 

How to keep wild boars out of your homes

 

If you have further queries, please contact us through our online feedback form at https://www.avs.gov.sg/feedback.