More than 1,800 wild pigs removed from Land Between the Lakes during eradication effort

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES, Ky., (KBSI) — Federal and state wildlife officials say a major wild pig eradication effort at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area has resulted in the removal of 1,802 wild pigs and a significant reduction in the invasive population.

According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, USDA APHIS Wildlife Services completed an extended aerial removal operation between January and March 2026 using helicopters equipped with thermal imaging technology.

Officials said follow-up surveys showed an estimated 90% decrease in the wild pig population across the Kentucky-Tennessee recreation area.

The winter operation primarily targeted female pigs, which travel in groups known as sounders and are easier to locate from the air than solitary animals.

Wildlife officials said trapping operations will continue as agencies work toward complete eradication of wild pigs at Land Between the Lakes and throughout Kentucky.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources said reducing wild pig populations helps protect native wildlife, preserve habitat and improve hunting opportunities for species such as deer and turkey.

Residents who spot wild pigs are encouraged to report sightings through the Squeal on Pigs reporting system.