Wildlife Welfare

Wild Boar in the UK: Welfare and Coexistence

Wild boar have returned to parts of England, creating complex management challenges and welfare questions for a species re-establishing in a human-dominated landscape.

Key Facts

Wild boar are present in the Forest of Dean and other woodland areas in England
They were hunted to extinction in Britain in the 17th century
Wild boar cause soil disturbance through rooting, benefiting some ground flora
They are shot under license for management purposes
Wild boar can conflict with agriculture and cause road accidents

Welfare Considerations

The returning wild boar population exists in a landscape very different from their natural habitat, with limited woodland connectivity and proximity to human settlements. Culling is the primary management tool, raising welfare questions about method, timing, and whether lethal control is proportionate. Evidence-based management that focuses on coexistence and conflict prevention alongside proportionate lethal control is the welfare-informed approach.

What You Can Do

Support organizations developing wild boar coexistence strategies
Advocate for evidence-based rather than reactive wild boar management
Drive carefully in areas where wild boar are present
Engage with local consultations about wild boar management in your area