Influence of bait and habitat on site visitation by wild pigs (Sus scrofa)

Wild pigs (Sus scrofa), known for their impacts on ecosystems in both their native and invasive ranges, are commonly managed using lethal trapping or shooting methods reliant upon bait or scent lures. Previous studies evaluating the efficacy of attractants at improving wild pig visitations have yielded mixed results, which are likely to be a reflection of the generalist foraging strategies of wild pigs as well as their fine-scale variability in space use.

We conducted experimental trials at 743 sites in South Carolina, USA, to quantify differences in wild pig visitation among a suite of bait, scent lures and bait + scent lure combinations to identify which maximized visitation. We monitored sites using a remote camera for 7 days and quantified visitation rates and time to visitation. Additionally, to identify habitat attributes that maximized wild pig visitation, we characterized a suite of habitat attributes at each location. Wild pigs visited more sites and had shorter times to visitation at sites with bait present (bait: 42.85%, 61.35 h; bait + scent: 47.99%, 60.98 h) than sites with scent lures alone (24.40%, 82.03 h), with similar results for groups of wild pigs and individuals, emphasizing the effectiveness of bait in increasing visitation. Our habitat modeling results suggest that wild pigs are more likely to locate bait sites in areas closer to water sources and in thick understory.

We recommend that managers maximize visitation of wild pigs by using high-value baits, not relying on scent lures, and intentionally selecting sites based on habitat attributes where wild pigs have nearby access to water and cover. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.