Alberta’s War on Wild Boar: High-Tech Tools and a Shifting Strategy
Thermal drones, coupled with artificial intelligence, are becoming increasingly vital in Alberta’s efforts to control the growing population of invasive wild boar. A recent collaborative project between Alberta Agriculture and the University of Calgary demonstrates the potential of aerial surveillance to track these destructive animals, considered a significant threat to agriculture and the environment.
From Reactive Response to Proactive Monitoring
Historically, Alberta’s wild boar programs have been largely “reactive,” relying on reports from the public through the “Squeal on Pigs!” tip line and, previously, a bounty program. However, the province is now shifting towards a more proactive approach, utilizing advanced technologies like thermal drones to identify and monitor wild boar populations before they cause extensive damage.
Hannah McKenzie, the Alberta government’s wild boar specialist, emphasized the importance of these new tools. “It really helps with maximizing efficiency in terms of field function, but also gives us just a different tool to monitor a species that is difficult to monitor,” she stated.
How Thermal Drones and AI are Changing the Game
Traditional tracking methods – ground tracking, helicopter surveys, and trail cameras – often prove ineffective because wild boar are nocturnal, intelligent, and adept at avoiding human detection. Thermal drones overcome these challenges by detecting the heat signatures of the animals, particularly at night when the contrast with their surroundings is greatest.
Researchers deployed thermal drones equipped with sensors in spring 2024, covering over 3,000 kilometers. The footage collected was then analyzed by AI programs trained to identify wild boar and record their numbers. The AI models achieved a detection accuracy of over 75 per cent.
The Threat Posed by Wild Boar
Alberta’s feral pig population consists of Eurasian wild boar and hybrids resulting from crossbreeding with domestic pigs. These hybrids are particularly concerning due to their adaptability and destructive nature. They can weigh between 55 and 115 kilograms and are prolific breeders, with sows capable of producing two litters every 12 to 15 months.
Wild boar cause significant damage by trampling habitats, devouring crops, and harassing livestock. They also contaminate water sources and can carry diseases, including African swine fever, which poses a serious risk to the province’s pork industry.
New Regulations and a National Perspective
Effective December 1, 2025, the Alberta government implemented new regulations classifying wild boar as a pest in all circumstances. It is now illegal to keep, import, purchase, export, sell, or transport wild boar or hybrids without a permit. The government is offering options for existing producers, including voluntary exit with compensation or continued farming under grandfathering provisions.
Ryan Brook, a University of Saskatchewan professor, stresses that a national, science-based strategy is crucial for eradicating wild boar, as they do not respect provincial boundaries. He commends Alberta’s recent shift in strategy, noting that the province is “in the front of the pack.”
Future Applications and Ongoing Research
The drone project aims to train AI programs to effectively detect wild boar, create a standardized database of sightings, and develop a digital habitat map to predict where feral herds are most likely to be found. Future research will focus on improving the AI’s ability to differentiate wild boar from other species and identify them across diverse landscapes.
FAQ: Wild Boar in Alberta
- What is Alberta doing about wild boar? Alberta is implementing new regulations, utilizing thermal drone technology, and conducting research to monitor and control the wild boar population.
- Why are wild boar a problem? They are destructive to crops and habitats, can carry diseases harmful to livestock, and pose a threat to the pork industry.
- Is it illegal to hunt wild boar in Alberta? Yes, hunting and trapping are banned except for landowners or occupants on their own land, and any kills must be reported.
Pro Tip: If you suspect you’ve seen a wild boar or hybrid, report it immediately through the Squeal on Pigs! tip line. Your report can assist track and manage this invasive species.
What are your thoughts on Alberta’s approach to wild boar control? Share your comments below and explore more Agri-News articles for the latest updates on agricultural issues in the province.
