Here in Gloucestershire, we have the most extensive population of feral wild boar in the UK. However, it has not always been this way. By the arrival of the 17th century, wild boar had been hunted to extinction.

The population was given another chance between the 1990s and 2004, as some farm reared boar had escaped, and others had been illegally released near the Wye Valley. The two groups of boar mated, and today the population of the feral wild boar is now thriving at an estimated 1200 in the Forest of Dean alone.

Characteristics of Wild Boar

Wild boar are feral animals and must always be treated with caution and respect. On spotting these animals, the first thing you will most likely notice is the colour of their bristle-like hair. Piglets have brown and cream stripes, and at around four months old they will lose the stripes, and the hair will grow a shade of red. When they reach adulthood, the average boar weighs about 90kg.

Some adult boar have very dark, almost black hair and usually originate from eastern Europe. The other type of boar you may see will have a lighter brown coat, which typically originates from western Europe.

Male boar have tusks averaging around 6cm in length which they use as tools, or weapons if they feel under threat. Female boar can breed up to two times a year, each time averaging around five piglets.

Feeding Time

A group of boar together is known as a ‘sounder’ and you will often see them foraging for food together. The eyesight of a boar is not very good, so they rely heavily on their sense of smell. They do this by using their snouts, often turning up the soil to find food and leaving apparent tracks to where they have been. Their diet is primarily made up of plant matter such as seeds, fruits and leaves, but they are also known to eat small mammals, insects and eggs.

Spotting Wild Boar

Wild boar can be spotted in sounders throughout the Forest of Dean and other forests in the UK, and can be found either in wooded areas or foraging along the roadside. They are a great sight to see and can be fascinating to watch, but do remember to always keep your distance, especially with young children and dogs. Nature is a beautiful thing, but must always be respected.

With the warmer months fast approaching, what better time to get out in the forest to enjoy the newly flourishing flowers and view from afar the new baby animals born this spring.