Marauding pig caught using remote camera technology

A 105 kilogram feral pig which had been causing headaches for landholders around the Central Coast was caught recently, aided by remote camera technology.

Cumberland Livestock Health and Pest Authority ranger, Ben Serafin, said cameras were used to determine the pig’s movements and assisted with its capture.

"Locals told us that there had been attempts to trap the pig in the past without success.

"Once we knew the pig was coming in to feed regularly, we slowly introduced the panels of the trap one at a time.

"The cameras allowed us to gauge the pig’s reaction to the panels," Mr Serafin said.

The pig had been known to residents of Mardi for some time. Mr Serafin said it had consistently caused damage to residents’ paddocks by rooting up the soil in search for food.

"Most recently it took a liking to a resident’s vehicle, using it as a scratching board," he said.

Mr Serafin said the capture was jointly achieved with staff from the National Parks and Wildlife Service. It highlights the important role remote cameras can play in feral animal control programs.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378