Feral pig (Sus scrofa) activity areas across Australia for integration into disease spread models

Abstract

Understanding the movement patterns and activity areas of pest vertebrate species is crucial for managing their impact on ecosystems and, in some cases, critical in controlling the spread of diseases. Feral pigs (Sus scrofa) are managed as a pest species in Australia because of the impacts they have on the environment and agriculture. There is additional interest in this species due to the potential they have to spread disease, such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). In this study, we aggregate GPS collar datasets collected from feral pigs across various landscapes in Australia. We use this data to assess activity areas and discuss environmental factors that may contribute to the size of activity areas and movement distances. Our analysis revealed significant variability in movement behaviours, even within sites. In total, we aggregated 520 feral pigs collar data sets, across all states and territories, except SA and ACT. Feral pigs were found to mostly have relatively small home ranges and movement distances. However, within most sites, individual pigs with atypical long-distance movements or much larger home range sizes were recorded. By integrating these empirical movement data into disease spread models, we could enhance the accuracy of predicting outbreaks and designing targeted control measures. This knowledge is vital for developing effective strategies to mitigate the environmental and economic impacts of feral pigs and to prevent the transmission of diseases to livestock.