Nearly 800 wild boars culled in Slavonia amid African swine fever concerns

Croatian hunters have culled nearly 800 wild boars in the five Slavonian counties between July 27 and August 10 as part of intensified measures against African swine fever. The Croatian Hunting Association reported that field data shows a significant decrease in wild boar numbers in certain areas, with some hunting grounds now reporting no presence of the animals at all.

The term 'culling' can refer to the shooting or live capture and relocation of game. In addition to culling, hunters conducted 178 drives and 2,215 searches of hunting grounds. These actions are aligned with the objectives set by relevant authorities to combat African swine fever and reduce the wild boar population. The Croatian Hunting Association is implementing these measures in cooperation with county hunting associations, hunting clubs, and societies.

"Field data shows that the number of wild boars has already significantly decreased in certain areas. In some hunting grounds within certain counties, hunting associations currently do not record the presence of wild boars at all, which confirms the intensity of the activities carried out so far," the statement read. The association also highlighted targeted efforts, including a group hunt on August 16 in the state hunting ground X/2 'Ćeralije', organized in accordance with the order to reduce the population of certain game species.

Group hunts are restricted to areas where such activities are permitted and comply with all regulations and protective measures against African swine fever. Biosafety measures, such as disinfecting equipment and vehicles, are also crucial. The Croatian Hunting Association emphasizes that activities related to wild boars are conducted continuously throughout the year, not just during periods of heightened measures. Hunters monitor the situation daily, track wild boar populations, search hunting grounds, and promptly report any changes to the authorities.