It is not uncommon for Seabrook residents to encounter a feral hog, especially in the fall months. It is advised to NEVER feed feral hogs or any wildlife for the matter. Feeding wildlife can make large, potentially dangerous animals become too comfortable in residential or recreational areas. Once animals learn they can panhandle for food, they can become a nuisance or worse, a safety risk.
Feral hogs are descended from and closely related to domestic hogs. As such, they may appear basically the same as domestic hogs and will vary in color and coat pattern. A mature feral hog may reach a shoulder height of 36 inches and weigh from 100 to over 400 pounds. The extreme larger hogs are generally not far removed from domestication. Males are generally larger than females. European wild hogs are about the same size; however, their legs and snouts are usually longer and they have a larger head in proportion to the body. Their body is covered with long, stiff, grizzled colored hairs, long side whiskers, a longer straighter tail, and a nape on the neck giving the European hog a Razorback, sloped appearance.
Feral hog sightings are not unusual and Animal Control need not be notified unless the animal creates a nuisance. Feral hogs that have entered into neighborhoods (alleys and yards), or that have threatened or attacked people or domestic animals are considered a problem and Animal Control should then be contacted at (281) 291.5644.