Population development and reproduction of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Estonia

Abstract

Similarly to other European countries, the wild boar (Sus scrofa) numbers in Estonia have made a rapid increase during resent decades. However, Estonia is near the northern boundary of the wild boar range and the population living in the area is significantly affected by winter climate. Therefore, it is likely that the increase in numbers is largely a result of common management practice – the extensive supplementary feeding of wild boars by hunters especially in winters and avoidance of hunting of adult females. As the increasing population density has been accompanied by growing conflicts between hunters, farmers, landowners and wildlife conservationist these management principles are now under dispute. Here we present data of analysis of reproductive tracts (uteri and ovaries) of wild-boar sows carried out in winter 2010, indicating a high participation rate of sub-adults and also juveniles in reproduction. We also give a brief overview of development, current status and hunting regulations of wild boar in Estonia.