Why Hawaii Has 400,000 Wild Boars and Where They Came From

Quick Take

• Hawaii's wild boars weren't always wild. Two very different groups of people introduced them centuries apart, and the combination permanently changed the islands. Explore the full history →
• Wild boars can carry more than 45 transmissible diseases, and their digging habit also creates a breeding ground for an entirely different pest threatening Hawaii's ecosystem. See the disease risks →
• Hawaii's feral pig population has reached a staggering number, and the math behind how they got there is even harder to believe than the number itself. See the population numbers →
• Hunting wild boar in Hawaii is considered a cultural tradition, though the rules, methods, and costs are nothing like what most visitors expect. Discover hunting traditions →

Wild boars (Sus scrofa), feral pigs, wild hogs, wild pigs: all these names fit the pua’a of Hawaii. Along with colorful birds, surfing, gorgeous native plants, and delicious pineapples, Hawaii is also known for the iconic wild boar. The Polynesian island has a long, intriguing history with the animals and tourists flock to see them — and eat them. Some people are surprised to learn that these iconic Hawaiian animals are non-native. Instead, the wild pigs were brought to the island by two different groups in two different eras. The island has never been the same since.

The History of Hawaii’s Wild Boars

It’s believed that the first humans migrated to the Hawaiian islands sometime between 1,000 and 1,200 A.D. Coming in double-hulled canoes across thousands of miles of open ocean, the people now known as ancient Polynesians entered the tropical paradise. With them came species of plants and animals from their former homelands. Pua’a, or wild pigs, came first with these people. The animals were a valuable source of protein, just as they are today. Pigs were introduced and allowed to roam freely within specific confines to keep them controlled and the island safe. Naturally, the pigs are drawn to native and non-native crops like taro and sweet potatoes, so they had to be contained to prevent crops from being destroyed. When new fruits (guavas and mangoes) were introduced, the pig population exploded.

About a millennium later, Captain Cook and his crew arrived in 1778. Noting the pigs commonly seen throughout the islands, he brought European breeds over as well, hoping to increase the size of the pig population on the island. The modern wild boars of Hawaii are the descendants of the two breeds imported by the Polynesian people and the Europeans. Pua’a are considered one of the earliest non-native species in Hawaii. Today, they are considered invasive.

How Many Wild Boar Are There in Hawaii?

The feral pigs thrive in the Hawaiian ecosystem and exist on all main islands except Lana’i. According to recent estimates, this population of wild boar has exploded to about 400,000 animals across the Hawaiian islands. The huge number of animals isn’t terribly surprising, as pigs are prolific breeders. The average litter size per pig is around 4–6, but it’s not uncommon for 12 to 14 piglets to be born. The gestation period of 114 days, or less than 4 months, also means the pigs are capable of reproducing a few times a year, and they can produce up to two litters annually.

Wild Boars’ Impact On the Ecosystem

The Hawaiian ecosystem is under threat from the wild boar. Their search for large amounts of food results in the pigs thrashing their way through both natural and cultivated food sources on the islands. Digging up roots and tubers, they destroy the local wild plants as well as crops like sweet potatoes and taros.

Many other native plants are destroyed in the process as well, as the boars churn their way through forested lands and natural meadows. All the rooting and digging also prevent new seeds from spreading and taking root, hindering the establishment of new plants.

Wild boars also help to spread mosquitoes. Their digging creates hollows in tree roots and soil that collect rainwater and attract mosquitoes. These hollows become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Are Wild Boars a Danger to Humans?

Though the babies look cute, wild pigs have the potential to cause harm to humans. However, most wild pigs avoid humans and unprovoked attacks are rare. Females are protective of their young and can become highly aggressive towards humans and other animals if they feel threatened in any way. Both males and females have tusks that can cause serious injuries if the pigs feel cornered.

Beyond physical attacks, wild pigs are also known to carry diseases that may infect humans. E. coli, hepatitis E, influenza A, and brucellosis are among the 45-plus diseases these animals are known to carry and transmit to humans and other animals.

Wild Boar Hunting

Many Hawaiians consider the hunting of wild boar a way of life, or at least a large part of it. The hunting of animals has gone on for centuries, passed down as tradition. For non-residents of Hawaii, hunting guides and experts are often engaged. If you’re interested in the experience of hunting feral hogs, there are many companies that can assist you.

Guides also have safety measures in place to help prevent wild hog attacks, and they often bring dogs along as an added safety measure. Many companies exclusively use traditional cultural hunting methods, using dogs, knives, and spears, but no guns. Some companies also provide supplies.

Wild boar can be hunted during the legal hunting season on public lands. Hunting season can vary depending on the island, so check dates and regulations per island before planning your trip. Anyone who wants to hunt must have a valid Hawaii hunting license. Resident hunting licenses cost $10.00, and non-resident licenses are $95.00. A Wildlife Conservation Stamp for game bird and big game hunting is automatically included with all Hawaii hunting licenses at no additional cost. All hunting license applicants are required to show proof of completion of a hunter education course recognized by the National Hunter Education Association.