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Brittany Resendiz
Rdg 3513-01L
8-8-16

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Chaparral... roadrunner? Or a thicket of shrubs?

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Chaparral... roadrunner? Or a thicket of shrubs?

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In the book, we learn that Audie (Chap's grandfather) drew a picture of a roadrunner, crossed out the word and wrote 'Chaparral'. I've always thought that chaparral meant roadrunner in Spanish because the logo for El Chaparral restaurant is a roadrunner. When I looked up information on 'chaparral', however, I found definition after definition telling me that chaparral meant a 'thicket of shrubs... adapted to dry summers and moist winters'. It sounds like the kind of vegetation you'd find in a swamp located in Texas.
It's not uncommon to nickname animals, or name people, after flowers and/or plants: Ivy, Juniper, Willow, Rose, Briar, Briony, etc. I wonder if the two meanings of chaparral are connected?...

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a thicket of dwarf evergreen oaks; broadly : a dense impenetrable thicket of shrubs or dwarf trees; an ecological community composed of shrubby plants adapted to dry summers and moist winters that occurs especially in southern California... See the full definition

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I was wondering if the statistics they used in the book were accurate (that out of approximately 2.5 million feral pigs in the United States, approximately half live in Texas).

I was surprised to learn that the numbers for Texas are accurate, but the population numbers fluctuate depending on who did the study- ranges from 2.5-8 million).  I think the fluctuation happens because people tend to lump javelinas and feral pigs together, though they are different.

And I was also surprised to learn that feral pigs are not nearly as violent as the media makes them out to be. A sow will protect her litter, or a pig will feel cornered and attack, but feral pigs prefer to avoid human interaction if they can help it.

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1. How many they average per litter and how often they can breed in a year?
The wild pig is the most prolific large mammal on the face of the Earth-but they are not "born pregnant"! The average is between 5 and 6 pigs per litter. Sows have approximately 1.5 litters per year. Are more litters per year and larger litter sizes possible? Absolutely yes! However, I am using long-term averages, not what can occur under ideal conditions -which usually unsustainable over the long haul. Young females do not typically have their first litter until they are 13+ months of age, even though they can be sexually mature at 6 to 8 months of age or even earlier in some cases.
2. What is the average lifespan of a wild pig?
Mortality rates vary greatly-impacting the very young and the very old primarily. Predation is not a big issue once they reach about 10 to 15 pounds. Hunting can be a significant mortality factor in some regions but generally is not enough to offset population growth. Depending on a variety of these factors, plus disease, vehicle collisions etc., average lifespan is probably between 4 and 8 years of age. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service surveyed landowners in 2011 to determine an estimate of how many wild pigs are removed from the Texas landscape each year. We estimated 753,646 wild pigs were removed by landowner-initiated efforts in 2010. This will help refine rate of population growth and population estimate models even more.
3. How heavy can they grow to?
Weights depend on genetic background and food availability. Generally, males can reach larger weights than females but this is not a hard and fast rule. Average weights vary but run 200 pounds for adult males and 175 pounds for adult females. A 300 pound feral hog is a large pig. The unusually large weights of 500 pounds + occasionally reported in the media are very rare.
4. What is the power of their bite? What other animal can it be likened to in that regard?
They have extremely strong jaws to crack open hard-shelled nuts such as hickory nuts and pecans. As they predate upon or scavenge animal carcasses, they can easily break bones and often consume the entire carcass, often leaving little if any sign behind.
5. How strong is their sense of smell?
The wild pig's sense of smell is well developed (much better than both their eyesight and hearing) and they rely strongly on it to detect danger and search out food. They are capable of sensing some odors 5-7 miles away and may be able to detect odors as much as 25 feet underground! Appealing to this tremendous sense of smell is often essentially as fermented or scented baits can provide additional attraction to make them more vulnerable to trapping.
6. What are their eating habits, and how much they eat in a day?
Wild pigs are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they feed on plant and animal matter in addition to being able to play the role of a scavenger. They are largely indiscriminant in their feeding habits and eat both vertebrate and invertebrate animals. Approximately 85% to 90% of their diet is believed to be composed of vegetation (including crops where available) and 10% animal matter. Small pigs may eat approximately 5% of their body weight daily; larger pigs an estimated 3 % of body weight.
7. Do you have any documented proof of their violent nature? (Newspaper clippings)
Ample documentation exists of wild pig-human encounters. However, the likelihood of a human being impacted by a hog/vehicle collision or disease risk-while still low is greater than an actual physical attack by a wild pig. Where the rare wild pig attack occurs, it is usually during a hunting scenario where dogs are used to bay or corner a pig in a spot and the pig "runs through" the associated hunters standing nearby. Occasionally, humans inadvertently walk between a sow and her litter and the sow reacts to protect her young. Totally unprovoked attacks outside of these two scenarios are rare. Given a choice, wild pigs usually flee rather than fight. However, U.S. newspapers report from 5 to 7 human fatalities each year.
10. If impaled by a wild pig's tusk, what disease could you get from one?
Most likely, a human would be subject to an infection just as you would from suffering any deep cut or abrasion from any unclean surface.
11. How fast can they run and high can they jump?
Wild pigs can run up to 30 mph. They can jump over fences less than 3 feet high and have "climbed" out of pig traps with walls 5 to 6 feet high. Therefore, traps with 90 degree corners must be covered on top because the pigs tend to pile up in that corner and literally climb over each other- and the corner gives enough leverage for them to go over the top. Either use a 5 foot high trap with no corners (circular or tear-drop shaped) or cover the corners/top of the trap.
12. How do they sleep? (habits...i.e. burrow a den? Standing up?)
Wild pig can simply lie down and sleep, usually on their sides. They will actually construct "nests" that they use for sleeping as well as farrowing. Some are very simple depressions and others can be quite elaborate. Oftentimes, they simply seek out thick underbrush for security or root into a brush pile or downed tree top for security. In the hot months, they will often lie in mud and/or seek deep shade.
13. How hard they are to kill?
How hard are they to kill with what? Very hard with a sling shoot or BB gun! Seriously, most archers shoot wild pigs in the heart /lung region immediately behind the shoulder from broadside or at a slightly quartering away angle. Hunters using firearms are advised to shoot the pigs in the neck or in the vitals (heart/lung region). Preferred rifles for pigs are 25 to 30 caliber. Regardless of the caliber/weapon, shot placement is essential for a clean and ethical kill. Archers typically limit their shots to 25-30 yards to help ensure a clean kill.
14. What other animal would you liken their intelligence level to, and ability to learn to avoid traps?
Wild pigs are one of the most intelligent species (exotic or native) found in the United States. They learn to avoid danger very quickly and "half-hearted" attempts to control them just make them less susceptible to future control efforts. They respond to human pressure via avoidance.
15. What is the average cost of property damage they inflict in Texas? Total cost of annual property damage?
A 2004 survey conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service placed annual damage to agriculture in TX alone at $52 million with an additional $7 million spent by landowners to attempt to control the pigs and/or correct the damage. This is indeed a very conservative estimate. Other researchers suggest that damage per pig per year averages $200- but the problem there is that the assumption is made that a 40 pound pig causes as much damage as a 300 pound pig, which is unlikely. The total pig population in Texas has been estimated recently (2011) at 2.6 million. However, estimates for the United States population as a whole are non-existent but "guesstimates" place that number between 4 million and 8 million animals. Some reports estimate total damage in the U.S. may be $1.5 billion annually-However, these damage estimates are in part based on population estimates-but again, a figure we don't have a good handle on nationwide.
16. Do they use the same trails to get from pace to place? If so, why?
Wild pigs are creatures of habit and will use the same bedding/resting areas and feeding areas as long as the food source remains available. However, they are capable of moving great distances to find food. Human disturbance/pressure will make them alter their patterns of movement. They do have some affinity to their "home range" which can vary from a few hundred acres to several thousand acres based on food availability and pressure. A 2011-12 telemetry study of adult female wild pigs with sounders in east Texas resulted in home range estimates of approximately 2 square miles, or 1,100 acres.
17. What so they do to damage trees specifically?
The most sensitive environmental areas wild pigs damage are wetland areas and they can alter the vegetative community present. They compete with native wildlife for hard mast (e.g., acorns from oak trees). Their rooting can accelerate leaf litter decomposition causing the loss of nutrients which can impact seedling survival of trees. Their rooting behavior can damage seedling tree growth and survival. Longleaf pine seedlings seem to be especially vulnerable to wild pigs. Research suggests that the pigs may actually root up seedlings of various tree species and chew the root system to obtain nutrients. They rub against individual trees (pines) that are capable of producing a lot of rosin (presumably as they rub to remove ectoparasites on their skin). Rubbing of selected pine trees has resulted in girdling of some mature trees which can eventually kill the tree.
18. Are older boars loners? If so why do we think that?
If you see a large wild pig traveling alone, 101 times out of 100 it is a boar. The mature boars become more solitary, or sometimes travel with a small number of other large boars. They only join up with sounders when a sow comes into heat.
19. When does a sow abandon its litter and when do they separate?
Within a few days of giving birth, a pregnant sow will leave the group in order to farrow. They may remain apart for 2 to 4 weeks then rejoin the group. We have observed piglets actively feeding on solid food (e.g., shelled corn) at only 2 weeks of age! The sows really don't "abandon" their litter over time. A "sounder" is a family group of pigs made up of sows (typically related via about 3 generations) and their piglets. Pigs are completely weaned by about 3 months of age, although they have been observed eating solid food (e.g., corn) at as young as 2 weeks of age. About 80% of the yearling females remain with the sounder and the rest disperse. Young males disperse from the sounder at about 16 to 18 months of age. There is some research that supports the idea that sounders can become territorial- but not the individual pigs.
20. What kind of damage are they capable of on a wire fence?
Wild pigs do a great deal of damage to net wire fences which are generally used to confine sheep and goats. They tear them up or lift them up off the ground to gain access and therefore leave "holes" that sheep and goats can pass through.
21. What kind of foods are they most attracted to when trying to trap them?
One size does not fit all when it comes to baits. However, research by Dr. Tyler Campbell (formerly with USDA-APHIS/WS) suggests that wild pigs are attracted to baits that have a sweet pungent odor, such as strawberry or berry flavorings. Hence, you will see several commercial "pig baits" that contain some type of strawberry flavoring based on this research. Many baits will and have worked and landowners are encouraged to vary baits among traps to find out what pigs find most attractive at a particular location or season. However, the more abundant the food supply, the more difficult it is to attract pigs to these baits. Shelled corn is often used, but landowners have also been successful by fermenting corn, milo, rice, oats, etc. to increase the odor attraction. Old fish grease, catfish "stink" baits and overripe fruit and vegetables have also been used successfully. Others have used maple syrup on corn. Some recent research in the southeast has indicated that while catch rates were no different between shelled corn and soured corn, although we do know from experience that non-target species (e.g., raccoons, deer, crows) use of shelled corn will be much higher than a soured grain product. Please note: We do not advocate the use of diesel on corn to encourage use by wild pigs and discourage use by non-targets such as deer or raccoons because we do not know the full impacts of diesel ingestion by the pigs-some of which many be destined for human consumption. Furthermore, the pouring or contact of diesel on the ground may create an environmental hazard.
22. We seem to hear a lot of "things were fine until a year ago" remarks by people with wild pig issues. Why the seemingly sudden boom in population and fearless invasion of residential neighborhoods?
I once made the comment that "There are but 2 kinds of landowners in Texas: Those with wild pigs and those that are about to have wild pigs". They have steadily increased their range by moving northward and westward over the past 25 years. They have also gone from being a rural land/agriculture issue to an urban/suburban issue as well by moving into these more populated areas that are adjacent to adequate habitat that provides cover, security and food. Why the population explosion over this time? Several reasons converged to create the "perfect storm" resulting in the boom. 1) Indiscriminant stocking to new habitats by landowners and hunters facilitated rapid increase-pigs cannot fly but they can be trailered and released. This was done regularly (-DESPITE BEING ILLEGAL) in the 1970's thru the 1990's-and the stockings were very successful at re-establishing wild pig populations across the state. 2) Supplementing non-migratory wildlife (deer, turkeys quail etc.) is legal in the state of Texas. For example, an estimated 300 million pounds of shelled corn are fed to deer annually in Texas, along with at least 120,000 million pounds of "protein pellets". However, non-target species (e.g., wild pigs, raccoons) get their fair share of these supplements. As a result, the sows that are on this higher nutritional plane because of their access to the unintended supplement allows sows to undergo "flushing" : produce more eggs, have larger litters and have more pigs in their litters survive. 3) Wild pigs are the most prolific large mammal on the face of the earth. They are not "born pregnant", but their high intrinsic (built-in) rate of increase when environmental conditions are favorable can allow for rapid population increases. Population increases are not just a Texas phenomenon-for various reasons, populations have expanded in many states and now some 36 states have established wild pig populations.
23. Where do they originate from?
Pigs were domesticated some 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. There are believed to be multiple areas of origin in both Europe and Asia. Polynesians brought domesticated pigs into the Hawaiian Islands around 700 A.D. The first pigs were brought into what is now the
continental U.S. into Florida in 1539 by Hernando de Soto. Explorers used these pigs as a traveling food source. After wandering around the southeastern United States in search of gold, his exploration party brought 700 pigs into what would become Texas in 1542.
24. What's the difference between a pig, hog and a boar, and are their different species?
All are descendants of a common ancestor-the Eurasian wild boar. The term Wild boar is typically used to describe Eurasian wild boar from Europe or Asia. Feral hogs are those that originated from domestic breeds but may be the result of a few or many, many generations in the wild. In the U.S., the best descriptor is probably to refer to them simply as wild pigs. Regardless, the Eurasians and domestics gone feral are largely the same species and therefore will interbreed with no problems resulting in all sorts of "hybrids" between the 2 groups. None of these should be confused with the javelina, a native pig-like mammal found in the American southwest that is not even closely related to wild boars/wild pigs/feral hogs. The best name to use is simply "wild pig".
25. Is there any use their bones, tusks or hair have in objects? (brushes, jewelry, leathers, etc.)
None that I know of. Their meat is consumed by humans. In fact, from 2004-2009, some 461,000 wild pigs captured in Texas were federally inspected and commercially processed for human consumption in the U.S., Europe and Asia.
26. Is it true that they use of mud as sun screen and to keep them cool? Does the mud help them with anything else?
Pigs have no functioning sweat glands and therefore they can be sensitive to high temperatures. During hot weather, they typically are associated more with cool shady places with water sources and tend to confine their movements at night when temperatures cool down. I don't agree that they are using mud as a sunscreen as much as they are using it to cool off in order to remain comfortable.
27. Do sows ever eat their young?
Never say never- but I would not term it as "common or routine behavior". There are instances where they have been known to scavenge on pig carcasses.
28. How do they interact with other animals? Any they hang with or avoid?
Most other wildlife species don't associate with wild pigs. The less mobile (lizards, toads, snakes) may end up being their next meal, while others (e.g., white-tailed deer) typically vacate the immediate area when wild pigs show up. They can be competitors with native species for certain food supplies such as acorns and limit the availability of those food sources for less aggressive native species.
29. Are there methods of communication with each other and how loud is their squeal. Would squealing act as a warning to other pigs of danger?
Squeals can serve as a means of communicating (between sows and young, as a warning between wild pigs competing over a food source or as a danger warning to other pigs).
30. Is Swine Flu a legitimate danger from wild pigs, and how abundant is it? (i.e. 1 out of every 10 pigs can spread flu...?)
NO-Wild pigs do not cause swine flu.
31. What is the estimated population of wild pigs in all the United States?
We do not have estimates based on scientific data for the entire U.S, we have guesstimates. Most experts would agree that it is somewhere between 4 million and 8 million animals but this estimate is not based on good data. There is a real need to conduct surveys to establish baseline population data. In Texas at least, these data do exist from 8 studies and thru the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) an estimate has been made at 2.6 million head. We are also getting a handle on the Texas wild pig population rate of population growth. Based on recent studies, we estimate that annual population growth in Texas is approximately 18-21%. At that rate (if left unchecked), the population would take about 5 years to double in size. However, collectively we are doing everything in our power to make sure the population is not left unchecked.
31. What is the estimated world population of wild pigs?
Some countries in Europe and Asia feel they have a better handle on their total populations of pigs and some of these census techniques are just now being employed in the U.S.
32. What is the estimated annual dollar amount of destruction caused by wild pigs in the entire U.S.?
Some reports place the total damage figure as high as $1.5 billion in the U.S. annually. That is based on a damage estimate of approximately
$200 damage per wild pig hog per year and the pig population of 6 million animals. However, if the population estimates (guesstimates) are wrong- so is the total damage estimate. Again, that assumes that all pigs cause the same amount of damage, which is untrue based on their size as well as where they live (e.g., 25 pounder vs. a 250 pounder; lower value rangeland vs. higher value cropland).
33. Is there some kind of census about the nation's wild pig population? What we're trying to find is how fast the population has grown, and at what rate they are continuing to grow.
No, there are guesstimates of from 4 to 8 million but researchers are working on finding better methods to estimate populations by state so we can gain a better handle on the total U.S. population. Anything you read in print right now on total U.S. populations is a pure guesstimate that is not based on scientific data. Our research work resulted in an estimated Texas population of about 2.6 million animals as of 2011.
34. When were wild pigs introduced to our soil?
1539- In what is now Florida by Hernando de Soto. These 13 pigs were originally domestics released to be used as a future food source by the explorers. De Soto captured these particular pigs in Cuba and brought them into what is now Tampa Bay, Florida. Obviously there were some escapes during the exploration and these pigs became the seed stock for future wild pig/feral hog populations. The wild pig herd that accompanied De Soto's party increased to approximately 700 head by the time the exploration entered into what is now Texas in 1542.
35. Number of professional wild pig eradication companies in Texas?
We have no way to track these companies. A number of individuals do offer control services in the state and can be found via internet searches. Those that trap pigs usually retain the right to them market them to a buying station for processing or sell males (boars and barrows) to hunting preserves. Several helicopter services offering aerial hunting for wild pigs are also operating in Texas.
36. Where are the worst damage problems in Texas?
Anywhere we have wild pig populations we seem to have problems. From an agriculture standpoint, cropland damage results in higher economic impact than rangelands or pasturelands. More recently, damage to greenscapes in urban and suburban settings have resulted in considerable economic impacts as well.
37. How many pigs are caught each year?
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service surveyed landowners in the Spring of 2011 to determine how many pigs they removed by all legal means from the Texas landscape in 2010. A total of 697 survey respondents controlling 1.8 million acres from 137 Texas counties removed 36,646 pigs in 2010. Trapping represented 57% of the total and shooting 35%. Dogs removed 6% of the total and snares removed just 2%. Of the "shooting" category, only 11% of the total pigs removed were taken by hunters. Based on this survey, we estimate 753,646 wild pigs are removed each year. We also know that from 2004- 2009, 461,000 hogs were federally inspected prior to slaughter at TX processing plants. These pigs were generally trapped then sold to buying stations. However, this is only a percentage of the pigs kept for home use or taken by hunters. Several studies suggest that annual hunter harvest averages 24% of the population-but these data are also lacking. It takes between 50% and 70% of a population to be controlled annually just to hold the numbers stable from one year to the next (Our population model suggested 66% had to be removed to hold the population stable). Therefore, recreational hunting alone cannot keep a population in check.
38. What diseases do they carry and are they harmful to other animals?
Approximately 15 diseases can be carried by wild pigs. However, swine brucellosis and pseudorabies are two examples of diseases of concern. Recently while testing wild pigs for brucellosis, researchers at Texas Tech documented the presence of tularemia in a large number of hogs tested. Tularemia can be transmitted to other animals and humans, Pseudo can be transmitted to other animals and swine brucellosis can be contracted by humans. Our recommendation is whenever you are field dressing hogs, use proper precautions (latex gloves and eyewear). Obviously, the biggest threat is disease transmission to domestic swine herds.
39. What are the different species of pigs typically found in Texas?
There is but one species (Sus scrofa) in the United States- but many breeds are involved as most of our wild pigs today are originally from domestic stock. There are about 8 species of hogs in the genus Sus (think of them to 2nd cousins to our wild pigs) but about 18 subspecies of Sus Scrofa (1st cousins) found worldwide. All of our modern domestic breeds as well as our wild pigs originated from a common ancestor-the Eurasian wild boar that was first domesticated some 8,000 to 10,000 years ago in Europe and Asia.
40. Are inroads being made in the wild pig problem?
Our Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service 2006-07 study clearly showed that we can reduce the economic impact of wild pigs on agricultural enterprises by 66%. That does not mean we significantly reduced the total population-However, it does show that concerted control efforts can abate damage significantly. Excellent research is being conducted investigating the use of both contraceptives and toxicants that could lead to additional tools for control in the future.
41. Do Texans understand the severity of the problem?
At one time, the wild pig issue was strictly considered to be an agriculture/rural issue in Texas. However, over the last decade, wild pigs have increasingly impacted urban/suburban areas of the state-including all the major cities, by damaging greenspaces (i.e., lawns, parks, sports fields) and by increases in vehicular collisions causing damage to vehicles and in some cases humans. More urban Texans are now aware of the issues relative to wild pigs.
42. Does the nation/Washington D.C . understand the severity of the problem?
At an Invasive Species Conference held in Washington D.C in 2010, several presentations were made regarding wild pigs and their impacts. So, efforts are being made to spotlight the issue in not only Texas but also in the other 46 or so states they now inhabit.
43. What are the wild pig's habitat preferences?
Typically, wild pigs will seek out the heaviest cover near water they can find where they are not harassed, then range out from there to feed. The habitats vary greatly across the range of the feral hog in the United States and even in Texas-from fairly arid regions in south Texas and the trans-Pecos of west Texas all the way to the heavily forested pineywoods and wetlands in eastern Texas. They must have sufficient food, water, cover and living space. If one or more of these requirements are not met, they can be extremely mobile and move to new areas that meet all of their habitat needs.
44. What impact do wild pigs have on our deer population in Texas?
Deer hunting in Texas is annually a $2.2 billion industry. Wild pigs impact white-tailed deer in 3 ways: 1) they compete ( and often out-compete) deer for native mast (e.g., acorns) as a food supply in the Fall, 2) they compete for supplemental food sources (forages, corn fed as bait for hunting and protein supplements) that are meant for deer. We feed 300 million pounds of shelled corn and at least 120 million pounds of protein annually in TX, with a good portion of that feed going to non-target species such as raccoons and wild pigs. Last Fall, shelled wildlife corn had a retail cost of $20 per 100 pounds (protein costs even more). We are likely making our wild pig population larger by feeding white-tailed deer where they share habitats because of unintended supplement consumption by the pigs. Now, this is Texas and we are not going to stop feeding deer, so we need to exclude feral pigs from deer feeders. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and TAMU-Kingsville conducted a study in 2009 that showed that feeder pens at heights of 28" and 34" effectively denied wild pig access to supplement without significantly impacting deer access. Cost per circular feeder pen is about $170 for six 16' panels x 34" and 12 t-posts, and 3) deer don't tolerate pigs very well and typically vacate the immediate areas when pigs show up at feeder locations/stations.
45. Which trap doors work best?
Recent research in Alabama and confirmed in Texas has shown that continuous catch doors (saloon, rooter and swinging door gates) do not continue to catch additional wild pigs once the door is tripped. Therefore, the use of drop (guillotine) gates can be added to the list of effective trap doors or gates. Research in Texas was also being conducted on the width of gate openings. Camera data previously suggested that many adult pigs have an aversion to entering narrower (<3 feet) gate openings. However, research findings did not confirmed this. Regardless, wider gates may reduce the training time necessary for adult wild pigs to accept the presence of and enter traps.
46. Are all traps the same?
Recent research in Georgia has shown that the catch rate in corral traps is 4 times higher than in box traps. Also, boars have exhibited an aversion to entering the smaller box traps. Additional Alabama research found that boars spent an average of 32 minutes per visit to a bait/trap site while sounders spent 70 minutes per visit on average. Also, sounders made twice as many trips to the sites as compared to boars. In Oklahoma, researchers caught more pigs per unit of effort using drop nets as compared to corral traps. They are currently investigate the effectiveness of a "hybrid" trap that combines the attributes of a corral trap and drop net. Regardless, one study showed that 73% of pigs that were trapped and marked were recaptured at a later date. Lastly, one study found that 10 of 12 traps (83%) captured additional pigs within one week of pigs being euthanized in the traps. This suggests that blood left in a trap is not necessarily a deterrent to other pigs.
47. If I capture wild pigs in a trap, what can I do with them?
In Texas, landowners/trappers can hold live wild pigs for up to 7 days. If they plan to hold them longer than that, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) must inspect and approve the holding facilities being used. According to TAHC regulations, females can be sold to permitted buying stations (check the TAHC website for a complete listing of these facilities) found across the state, which is a good method of recouping part of one's trapping and damage repair costs. Male wild pigs can be sold to a permitted buying station or a permitted hunting preserve. Of course many landowners/hunters/trappers prefer to process the wild pig for home consumption.
48. What are some other sources of information on wild pigs?
Three websites that can provide additional information include:
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension's wild pig website: https://feralhogs.tamu.edu
National Wild Pig Community of Practice website: www.extension.org/feral_hogs
Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Overton:
http://overton.tamu.edu
49. Do all states have wild pigs?
We have recently classified the states with wild pigs into various categories for management planning purposes. Fourteen states currently do not have wild pigs: AK, CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, MN, MT, ND, RI, SD, VT, WA, and WY. Eight states have small isolated populations: CO, ID, IA, NE, NV, NH, NJ and UT. Four states have established but stable populations: IN, KS, WV and IL. Thirteen states have established and increasing populations: AZ, KY, MI, MS, MO, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, VA and WI. Eleven states have large well-established and growing populations: AL, AR, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, OK, SC, TN and TX.
50. Do I need a hunting license to take wild pigs in Texas?
The answer depends on your intent. If you are a landowner or a designated agent of a landowner removing wild pigs by any legal means in order to abate damage, then a hunting license is not required. However, if you are taking wild pigs for meat and/or for recreation (e.g., hunting), then a valid Texas hunting license is required. This would also apply to trapping, snaring or dogging.

Updated: August 2013

Billy Higginbotham
Professor and Extension Wildlife and Fisheries Specialist
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
V: 903‐834‐6191 email: b‐higginbotham@tamu.edu

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Frequently Asked Questions-Wild Pigs - Coping with Feral Hogs

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You Tube Video: Feral - Hog Question and Answers by: Billy Higginbotham 1. How many they average per litter and how often they can breed in a year? The wild pig is the most prolific large mammal on the face of the Earth-but they are not "born pregnant"!

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I wonder... are there swamps in Texas, and if so, where are they located?
Since 'True Blue Scouts' is set in a Texas swamp (I thought the book was set in Louisiana until the last half!), I was curious where any swamps would be located. Turns out swamps are pretty abundant in our Lone Star State! They reside primarily in East Texas and run up the coast and toward/into Louisiana.

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THE BIG THICKET

1 TONY HOUSEMAN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
Owner: Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept. 409/736-2551
Nearest Town: Orange Size: 3,313 acres
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/wma/wmarea/housemann.htm

Wetlands: Riverine forested- cypress-tupelo swamp, bottomland hardwoods

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, primitive camping, fishing, hunting, canoeing

Description: Known as Blue Elbow Swamp, this Sabine River wetland is one of the largest remaining blocks of swamp on the Texas coast. Water-tolerant trees and shrubs dominate this wetland; soils are saturated or flooded by water during much of the year. Pedestrian access at the Texas Dept. of Transportation Travel Information Center on the I-10 north service road. An extensive boardwalk system goes into the swamp. Facilities at the Info. Center. Commercial airboat tours on the Sabine River available through Super Gator Tours (1-800-241-6390, http://www.pnx.com/gator/airtour50.htm) or Texas Marshland Tours (409/736-3023, http://www.marshland.com/).

Directions: On I-10 north service road at the Sabine River in Orange, TX.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- swamps and bottomland hardwoods Coastal flatwoods- mixed pine-hardwood; bogs

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, canoeing, boating, camping, fishing, hunting, biking, horseback riding, environmental education/interpretation

Description: The preserve consists of nine separate land units and four riparian corridors, and is known for exceptional diversity of plants, animals, and habitats. The Information Station, located in the Turkey Creek Unit north of Kountze in Hardin County, is open daily except December 25. No entrance fee and all programs are free. Advance reservations are required for all environmental education programs and interpretive activities.

Directions: Information Station- From Beaumont, take US 69/287 to seven miles north of Kountze. Turn east on FM 420 for 2.9 mi. to Info. Station and Kirby Nature Trail.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- cypress-tupelo swamp, bottomland hardwoods

Recreation: wildlife viewing, camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, canoeing

Description: The park is heavily wooded and has frontage on Village Creek. Bottomland hardwood forests dominated by water oak, willow oak, black gum, red maple, black willow, green ash, yaupon, dwarf palmetto, gallberry holly, and some loblolly pine. Village Creek is a popular flat-water canoe/float stream. Wetland wildlife and waterbirds are abundant. The park is open year-round, there is an entrance fee. Call the park for details.

Directions: From Beaumont, take US 69 north. Take Mitchell Rd. exit onto Mitchell Rd. (just before US 69/96 split). Go about 0.4 mi. and turn north on FM 3513. Go about 2 mi. and turn east on Alma Dr. Cross railroad tracks (veer to left) and go 0.6 mi. to park entrance.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- cypress-tupelo swamp, bottomland hardwoods Coastal flatwoods- longleaf pine savanna

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, nature trails, interpretive display, guided tours

Description: Another Big Thicket site with exceptional biological diversity. Bottomland hardwood forests dominated by water oak and sweet gum, with willows and river birch along the stream banks. Open to the public during daylight hours. Six miles of nature trails and an interpretive display enhance the wildlife viewing. An eight-mile canoe trail on Village Creek provides bottomland wildlife viewing. Guided tours on the nature trails are available upon request.

Directions: From Beaumont, go north on US 96 to Silsbee. Turn west for 2.5 mi. on TX 327 to entrance. Canoe trail starts where FM 418 crosses Village Creek.

Wetlands: Prairie potholes and marshes- constructed marsh

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, park facilities

Description: The park is a multi-use facility. The cattail marsh is a component of the Beaumont wastewater treatment system. Water levels in the constructed wetland compartments fluctuate and attract a diverse variety of waterbirds. Visitors can walk the levees of the compartments. Day use, no fee.

Directions: From Beaumont, go west on I-10 and exit onto Walden Rd. Go south on Walden Rd., which becomes Tyrrell Park Rd., to entrance at Babe Zaharias Dr.
SABINE LAKE & CHENIER PLAIN
Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal marshes (brackish to freshwater)

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, hunting, boating

Description: Land subsidence, caused by oil and gas extraction, plus saltwater intrusion have caused much marsh to be converted to open water. Area still supports some tidal marshes. Hiking on road and levee system. Area open for day-use only, portions open year-round. No facilities or potable water. Visitors 17 years old or older must possess one of several access permits; call area for details. More marsh along road to Bailey's Fish Camp on Sabine Lake.

Directions: From Port Arthur, go north on TX 87 to Bridge City. Turn right on Lake St., go about 1.5 mi. to parking area and viewing platform on Lake St. Continue south to Bailey's Fish Camp (shell road).

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal marshes (brackish to freshwater); freshwater impoundments

Recreation: wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, boating, nature trail

Description: Excellent for all types of wetland wildlife. Public hunting permitted for alligator, waterfowl, gallinule, rail, and snipe. Area open for day-use only and all units except one are accessible by boat only. One unit, with a nature trail and viewing platform, is accessible on foot. No facilities or potable water. Visitors 17 years old or older must possess one of several access permits; contact area for details and open dates. Texas Marshland Tours (409/736-3023, http://www.marshland.com/) operates commercial boat rides into the WMA.

Directions: From Port Arthur, go 3 mi. west on TX 73. From Winnie, go east 25 mi. on TX 73.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarshes

Recreation: wildlife viewing, fishing/crabbing, hiking, boating, waterfowl hunting

Description: Excellent for wintering waterfowl and migrating songbirds. Lack of facilities, potable water, and interior roads combined with wet soils and biting insects requires visitors to be well prepared. Primitive trail accessible from the parking lot on TX 87 provides access to marsh and wooded cheniers. No fees and no restrictions on hours. Shallow-water boats can launch (for small fee) at private dock at Texas Bayou near east boundary. Headquarters at McFaddin NWR. TX 87 crosses tidal marshes north of Sabine Pass. The road from Sabine Pass to the Pilot Station at Texas Point crosses more tidal marshes.

Directions: From Port Arthur, take TX 87 about 15 mi. south to Sabine Pass. Go 2.4 mi. west (south) on 87 to nature trail. From Sabine Pass, go east on FM 3322, turn south on South 1st and go south to Texas Point.

Alligator at Sea Rim State Park. (JACK LEWIS, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

9 SEA RIM STATE PARK
Owner: Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept. 409/971-2559
Nearest Town: Sabine Pass Size: 4,141 acres
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/searim/searim.htm

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarshes

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, beach activities, canoeing (rentals) and kayaking, camping, fishing, waterfowl hunting, nature trail, airboat tours

Description: Excellent for wetland and estuarine wildlife. Marsh airboat tours (fee) by reservation only. Gambusia Nature Trail is a boardwalk in the marsh with a self-guided booklet. Visitor Center has environmental exhibits. Marshlands Unit entrance on north side of TX 87; there is a boat ramp for shallow-water craft like canoes (rented at park) and kayaks. Boardwalk in riparian woods (black willow, and saltcedar) along south side of TX 87. Open year-round (entrance fee).

Directions: From Port Arthur, go south on TX 87 to Sabine Pass, then west on 87 for 10 mi. to park.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal marshes (brackish to freshwater)

Recreation: wildlife viewing, fishing/crabbing, boating, waterfowl hunting

Description: Primarily undeveloped marsh accessible only by boat. Eight miles of interior roads provide vehicle access to inland lakes and waterways. Seven launch ramps provide access for shallow-water boats. Clam Lake Rd. is open year-round during daylight hours; the rest of the road system has designated open hours. No fees. Headquarters on Clam Lake Rd.

Directions: From Sabine Pass, go west 12 mi. on TX 87 to Clam Lake Rd. TX 87 from here to High Island is closed, due to erosion, necessitating a detour onto TX 73.
TRINITY RIVER & DELTA
11 UPPER TEXAS COAST WETLAND EDUCATION CENTER, INC.
Owner: Chambers-Liberty Counties Navigation District 409/267-3541
Nearest Town: Anahuac

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarshes and mudflats; open bay Prairie potholes and marshes- freshwater marsh fringing Lake Anahuac

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, interpretive boat tours, nature trail

Description: Navigation District operates two 45-foot boats in the lower Trinity River Delta and the upper parts of Trinity and Galveston Bays. Boats can accommodate groups of up to 10 people. Boat tours include education and interpretation of wetlands and bay habitats. Call Navigation District for details. Lake Anahuac levee nature trail accessible on foot during daylight hours.

Directions: From I-10, take FM 563 exit and go south 7 mi. to Anahuac. Turn right on Miller Ave. and go to Anahuac Harbor. For nature trail, go west on TX 61 off FM 563 to Anahuac Pumping Station.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal marshes (brackish to freshwater) Riverine forested- swamps, bottomland hardwoods. Coastal flatwoods- hardwoods

Recreation: wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, waterfowl hunting

Description: Very diverse complex of tidally influenced estuarine and riverine wetlands. Visitor Center is located on the east levee at the lock on the Trinity River. The Trinity River Mouth Waterbird Rookery and Horseshoe Ponds trail are accessed here also. The 4-mile long west levee, accessible on foot, is reached off the west end of the Trinity River Bridge.The 80-acre Cedar Hill Park is on Lake Charlotte, on the only high ground in the area, in the middle of a cypress swamp. Contact Project office for open hours. No fees.

Directions: From Houston, go east on I-10, cross the Trinity River and exit onto frontage road (exit 806) at east end of bridge. Turn off frontage road, just before Levee Rd., onto an elevated road and go about 2 mi. to VC. Lake Charlotte is north on FM 563 off I-10 (4 mi. east of TR bridge) and west 1.3 mi. on Lake Charlotte Rd.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- swamps and bottomland hardwoods
Coastal flatwoods- pine and mixed pine-hardwood

Recreation: Currently, the refuge is closed to the public. Conservation-oriented group tours can be arranged by contacting the refuge.

Description: Land acquisition is ongoing at the refuge, located 45 miles northeast of Houston on the Trinity River floodplain. Excellent habitat for waterbirds, raptors, woodpeckers, and songbirds (especially warblers, vireos, and flycatchers). Three colonial waterbird rookeries.

Directions: Contact refuge.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking

Description: In the Sam Houston National Forest in San Jacinto County. Miles of nature trails through extensive bottomland forests on Big Creek, a tributary of the Trinity River. A 5-mile trail connects the area with the Double Lake Recreation Area, which has a boardwalk through a marsh at the upper end of the lake. No fee.

Directions: From Houston, go north on US 59 to Cleveland. Go north 10 mi. on FM 2025, turn east on FM 2666 and go 2.5 mi. to FR 221 (gravel). Go north 0.5 mi. on FR 221 to FR 217, turn east and go 1 mi. to parking area. Double Lake entrance is 15 mi. north of Cleveland on FM 2025.
SAN JACINTO RIVER
Wetlands: Riverine forested- swamp and bottomland hardwoods

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking/biking, fishing, canoe/pontoon boat tours, interpretive displays, school outreach program

Description: The Center has a boardwalk in the forested bottomlands of Spring Creek, a tributary of the West Fork San Jacinto River. Excellent birdwatching, especially for warblers. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are reserved for visiting school groups. Center also runs a school outreach program. Public and group canoe/pontoon boat tours offered periodically. Open year-round during daylight hours. All programs are free.

Directions: From Houston, go north about 19 mi. on US 59. Go west 1.8 mi. on FM 1960 to Kenswick Dr. Go north 1 mi. to entrance.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods
Coastal flatwoods- mixed pine-hardwood

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking/biking, camping, nature study

Description: Miles of trails through extensive bottomland forests along Caney and Peach Creeks, and the East Fork San Jacinto River. Open year-round, every day. Day use from 8 am to 10 pm. Entrance fee; camping fees vary.

Directions: From Houston, go north on US 59 to New Caney exit and FM 1485. Go east 2 mi. to Baptist Encampment Rd.; turn south for 1.5 mi. to entrance.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- swamp and bottomland hardwoods Coastal flatwoods- mixed pine-hardwood. Prairie pothole and marsh- marsh fringing reservoir.
Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, fishing, boating, canoeing, nature study, wildscape demonstration gardens

Description: The reservoir is on Carpenter's Bayou, a tributary of Buffalo Bayou. Sheldon Lake Environmental Education Center offers fishing clinics, nature walks, and wetland studies to organized groups on a prearranged basis. Park has two boat ramps. Two miles of nature/interpretive trails with boardwalks and viewing platforms; also canoe trails. Entrance fee, contact Park for details.

Directions: From Houston, take I-10 east to Beltway 8. Go north about 8 mi. to Garrett Rd. Go east 2 mi. on Garrett Rd. to Park.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh (natural and restored) Prairie pothole and marsh- demonstration marsh

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking/jogging, fishing, boating, interpretive displays, wetland restoration activities

Description: Eddie V. Gray Center, on the bank of Goose Creek, has indoor classrooms, computer lab, and interpretive wetland displays, as well as indoor and outdoor fishing ponds. The Nature Center, on the San Jacinto River about 4 miles from EVG, is the outdoor classroom. The Nature Center was formerly the Brownwood subdivision that was abandoned due to land subsidence and flooding. Wetland restoration projects at both sites. No fees. Port-A-Cans available at Nature Center.

Directions: From Houston, go east on I-10 and exit on Spur 330/Decker to Baytown. To BNC, go right (south) on Bayway Dr. 1.5 mi., turn right on Shreck to dead end. To EVG, exit Spur 330 onto service road just before TX 146 (formerly Loop 201) overpass, go to dead end, left on J. B. LeFevre to dead end, left on Market St., first building on left.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh (restored)

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, picnicking, tours

Description: The State Historical Park's tidal marshes, which played a role in the defeat of the Mexican Army in 1836, were lost due to land subsidence. The 200-acre marsh revegetation project used dredge spoil to raise the marsh elevation so marsh vegetation could survive. The project is the largest block of tidal marsh remaining on the lower San Jacinto River. No entrance fee.

Directions: From I-610 East, take TX 225 east 11 mi. to TX 134 (Battleground Rd.), continue north about 2 mi. and turn right on Park Rd. 1836.
GREATER HOUSTON AREA
Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh- constructed demonstration marsh (0.25 acre)

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, historical buildings

Description: An urban park in downtown Houston. City of Houston Parks & Recreation Dept., Enron, the Environmental Institute of Houston, and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation have constructed a freshwater wetland and native plant gardens in the park. No fee.

Directions: Adjacent to downtown Houston across from Texaco Heritage Plaza at 1100 Bagby.

21 WHITE OAK BAYOU PARK
Owner: City of Houston 713/845-1000
Nearest Town: Houston
http://www.greatamericantrails.com/birding_trails/utc_site090.html
http://www.bayoupreservation.org/pages/whiteoakbayou.htm

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods and swamp

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking/biking

Description: Just northeast of downtown Houston. Community residents have cleaned and restored a section of swamp along White Oak Bayou. White Oak Bayou Hike and Bike (Harris County) is adjacent and has full facilities. No fee.

Directions: From Memorial Dr. in downtown Houston, exit onto Houston Ave., go north to White Oak Dr., go north on White Oak to park.

22 PINE BROOK NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
Owner: City of Houston 713/845-1000
Nearest Town: Clear Lake Size: 5 acres

Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh- pothole on Beaumont Formation

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, boardwalk

Description: Site has a three-acre prairie pothole with an elevated boardwalk. The pothole is not buffered by a surrounding undeveloped landscape, so it may not survive long. No entrance fee, facilities on site.

Directions: From Houston, go south on I-45 to Clear Lake. Exit on FM 2351, go east on 2351 (Clear Lake City Blvd.) to intersection with Park Center Dr. and the park.

Armand Bayou Nature Center. (JACK LEWIS, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION)

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal mudflats and restored salt marshes
Coastal flatwoods- hardwoods
Prairie pothole and marsh- wet prairie

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, pontoon boat rides, environmental education classes

Description: One of the last unchannelized bayous in the Houston area, the preserve protects remnant wetlands and tall grass prairie. Tidal marsh and seagrass restoration programs. Offers a variety of classes and outdoor environmental education school field trips. Class and entrance fees vary. Open 9 -5 on Wed.-Sat., noon-dusk on Sun. Just west of ABNC at 7500 Bay Area Blvd. is Bay Area Park (Harris County 281/326-6539). It also has wetlands along Armand Bayou.

Directions: From Houston, go south on I-45 and exit on Bay Area Blvd. Go east 6 mi. to entrance. Bay Area Park is just west of ABNC.

24 HIGHWAY 96 NATURE PARK
Owner: City of League City 281/316-3451
Nearest Town: League City Size: 44 acres

Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh- potholes and marsh on Beaumont Formation

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, interpretive trails

Description: Established as mitigation for the construction of Hwy. 96, the site is scheduled to open in spring 2001. A prairie site with natural prairie wetlands. Self-guided prairie trail and boardwalk through wetlands. Good birdwatching for grassland and wetland birds. No entrance fee. Restroom facilities available.

Directions: From Houston, go south on I-45 to League City. Take Calder Rd. exit to Hwy. 96. Go east on 96 about 5.5 mi. to park.

Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh-marsh and shrub wetlands

Recreation: wildlife viewing, nature trail, park facilities

Description: Marsh and shrub wetlands have formed on the downthrown (low) side of a fault caused by land subsidence due to oil and gas extraction from the Clear Lake Oil Field. A nature trail skirts part of the wetlands. No fee.

Directions: From Houston, go south on I-45 to Beltway 8. Go west about 3 mi. on Beltway 8, exit onto Hall Rd. Turn left (south) on Hall Rd., go about 0.25 mi. to entrance.

Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh- potholes and old rice fields

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking

Description: Both reservoirs are for flood control and normally hold water only in the lowest areas. Local school groups have restored a small fresh marsh in the Barker floodpool. For locations and directions contact the project office. Project office is open 7:30-4:00, Mon.- Fri. Various trails cross different habitats. Areas always open; no fees.

Directions: From Houston, go west on I-10. Take TX 6 south about 1 mi. to project office at 1042 TX 6 South. Another mile south is a parking lot across from Briar Forest Rd. A gravel road (trail) goes into the floodpool and a restored wetland.
KATY PRAIRIE
Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh- potholes (Lissie Formation), rice fields Riparian forested- bottomland hardwood corridor

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, periodic guided tours

Description: Located in Harris and Waller Counties. Part of a larger system of protected prairie preserves. Tract has an assemblage of agricultural wetlands and wetlands in natural depressions, as well as a riparian hardwood corridor on Cypress Creek. An ADA-accessible viewing platform on Sharp Road overlooking a wetland enhancement project is open during daylight hours. The preserve is open to the public on a limited basis through periodically scheduled tours.

Directions: From Houston, take I-10 west to Katy. Exit onto US 90 and continue west to Ave. D. Go north about 2 mi., turn right onto Katy-Hockley Rd. Go north on Katy-Hockley 8.5 mi., then west on Sharp Rd. to preserve. Continue to Waller Co. line and viewing platform.
GALVESTON BAY & BARRIER ISLANDS
Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarshes
Prairie pothole and marsh- marshes, potholes, rice fields, managed impoundments

Recreation: wildlife viewing, wetlands auto tour, hiking, fishing, boating, waterfowl hunting

Description: Excellent for wintering waterfowl and migrating songbirds. Twelve miles of gravel roads offer good wildlife viewing on auto tour. Restrooms in three locations, no potable water. East Bay Bayou tract has a 1.5-mile nature trail in riparian woodlands along the bayou, and managed wet prairie at the entrance. Boating on inland waters is permitted only on the boat canal. Two boat ramps open year-round. No fees.

Directions: From I-10 at Anahuac/Hankamer exit, go south 2 mi. on TX 61 to FM 562. Go south on FM 562 for 8.3 mi. to FM 1985, then 4 mi. east to main entrance. Continue east on FM 1985 to East Bay Bayou Tract.

29 ROLLOVER PASS & BAY
Owners: Texas General Land Office (tidal areas) & Private
Nearest Town: Gilchrist

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal flats and saltmarshes

Recreation: wildlife viewing

Description: The channel is a man-made "fish pass" cut across Bolivar Peninsula to Rollover Bay. On the bay side of the channel an extensive tidal delta has formed. Tidal flats are fringed by saltmarsh along the bayshore. About 0.5 miles west of the Pass on TX 87, Yacht Basin Road, which goes north and ends at the Intracoastal Waterway, crosses tidal marshes.

Directions: From Galveston, take the free ferry to Port Bolivar. Go east on TX 87 about 20 mi. to the Pass

30 BOLIVAR FLATS SHOREBIRD SANCTUARY
Owner: Texas General Land Office
Manager: Houston Audubon Society 713/932-1639
Nearest Town: Port Bolivar Size: 550 acres
http://www.greatamericantrails.com/birding_trails/utc_site058.html
http://www.houstonaudubon.org/index.cfm/CFID/5456903/CFTOKEN/90254017/MenuItemID/123.htm

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh and flats

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, beach activities

Description: A very important site for migratory shorebirds. Also excellent for gulls, terns, seabirds, wading birds, and sea ducks. These marine flats were created by the deposition of sediment, carried by longshore currents, behind the north jetty that protects the entrance to Galveston Bay (Bolivar Roads). No facilities, no fees.

Directions: From Galveston, take the free ferry to Port Bolivar. Take TX 87 about 3.5 mi. to Loop 108, turn right on Rettilon Rd., turn right onto beach, go about 0.75 mi. to entrance at telephone poles in sand.

31 BIG REEF NATURE PARK
Owner: Galveston Park Board of Trustees 409/763-6564
Nearest Town: Galveston
http://www.galveston.com/islandbirding/

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh and mudflats

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing/crabbing, beach activities

Description: The park, at the eastern tip of the island, is a tidal inlet fringed by saltmarsh and mudflats. Very accessible with parking along Boddeker Dr. A boardwalk provides access into the marsh. School groups use area as an outdoor classroom. No facilities, no fee. Apffel Park, at the end of Boddeker (a.k.a. East Beach), has facilities ($5 parking fee).

Directions: In Galveston, take Seawall Blvd. east to dead end at Boddeker. Turn right on Boddeker and go 0.25 mi. to the park.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh and mudflats

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, kayaking/canoeing, educational discovery classes

Description: Along both sides of I-45, the tract extends south of Bayou Vista subdivision and TX 146 to the I-45 railroad overpass just north of the causeway to Galveston. Tract is contiguous with 2,200 acres of additional wetlands controlled by The Nature Conservancy of Texas and the Galveston Bay Foundation. Wetlands include both natural and restored saltmarsh. Tidal connection has been restored to an old dredge-spoil compartment. Facilities and picnic area at Reitan Point; adventure trail further south. No fees.

Directions: From Houston, go south on I-45. Exit onto service road south of the Bayou Vista subdivision and TX 146 to parking areas on both sides of I-45.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarshes and mudflats Barrier island interior- marsh in interdunal depressions

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, camping, hiking/biking, fishing, nature study, beach activities

Description: The bay side of the park has extensive tidal saltmarshes and mudflats including a restored 750-acre saltmarsh. Land subsidence and erosion had damaged this marsh. Educational tours of beach and bay ecology by appointment only. Contact park to make arrangements and for fee info. Park has an interpretive center and self-guided nature/interpretive boardwalk in the saltmarsh. Entrance fee.

Directions: From Galveston, turn right off I-45 onto 61st St., go south on 61st to Seawall Blvd., then right (west) on Seawall (FM 3005) 10 mi. to park.

34 SAN LUIS PASS
Owners: Texas General Land Office (tidal), Galveston County
Nearest Town: Jamaica Beach
http://www.galveston.com/islandbirding/

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal flats and saltmarsh

Recreation: wildlife viewing, fishing, beach activities

Description: Extensive tidal sand flats on the bay side of San Luis Pass, at the western tip of Galveston Island. Some tidal marsh established in areas protected from erosive wave action. Sand may be soft, so be careful when driving on the flats. No facilities or fees.

Directions: From Galveston, go west on FM 3005 to the west end of the island (about 25 mi.). Exit FM 3005 just before the toll bridge across the Pass.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarshes and mudflats

Recreation: wildlife viewing, fishing, beach activities

Description: This undeveloped site on Follets Island northeast of Freeport has 1.5 miles of Gulf beach and 15,000 feet of frontage on Drum and Christmas Bays. Tidal saltmarshes and mudflats fringe the Bay. Christmas Bay Scenic View is 3.2 miles west of San Luis Pass. Site has no hours, no facilities, and no fees.

Directions: From Freeport, go south on TX 322 to Surfside Beach. Go east on Bluewater Highway (San Luis Pass Rd.) about 8 mi. No signs at site.

36 AMOCO WETLANDS TRAIL
Owner: Amoco
Nearest Town: Alvin

Wetlands: Prairie pothole and marsh- marsh in impoundments

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking

Description: Amoco has developed a trail to access wetlands in shallow impoundments. Walk the road, which passes through prairie habitat, to the observation platform. Open for day use, no fee or facilities.

Directions: From Lake Jackson, go north on FM 2004 to FM 2917. Go northwest (left) on FM 2917 about 1.1 mi. to trail. From Alvin, take FM 2403 south to FM 2917, then south 6.6 mi. on 2917 to trail.
BRAZOS RIVER & DELTA

Roseate spoonbills near Surfside. (STAN WILLIAMS, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION)

37 BRAZORIA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Owner: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 409/849-7771
Nearest Town: Clute Size: 43,905 acres
http://southwest.fws.gov/refuges/texas/texasmidcoast/brazoria.htm

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh and mudflats Prairie pothole and marsh- marsh in managed impoundments, potholes

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, waterfowl hunting, auto tour, exhibits

Description: Auto tour has 7 miles of gravel roads and 10 interpretive stops dealing with marsh ecology. School groups can get hands-on experience during outdoor classrooms held at the refuge by teachers. Tours for organized groups can be arranged by contacting Angleton office for reservations. Public access limited in summer, contact refuge for info.

Directions: From intersection of TX 35 and FM 523 in Angleton, go 4 mi. south on FM 523 to FM 2004 intersection. Continue on 523 for 5.5 mi. to County Road 227. Turn left and go 1.7 mi. to entrance.

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh Prairie pothole and marsh- sloughs and seasonal ponds, managed impoundments

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hunting, hiking, nature trail

Description: Excellent area for birdwatching. Nature trail is in oak motte and grassland habitats. No restrooms or potable water. Visitors 17 years old or older must possess one of several access permits (no permit required for nature trail), contact area for details.

Directions: From Freeport, go west 5 mi. on TX 36 to entrance

Wetlands: Estuarine- tidal saltmarsh and mudflats
Prairie pothole and marsh- marshes, managed impoundments

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, saltwater fishing/crabbing, waterfowl hunting, hiking, auto tour

Description: Designated public-use areas open daily during daylight hours. The 3-mile, self-guided auto tour and 3 hiking trails offer excellent wildlife viewing. Restrooms and brochures available at headquarters. Tours can be arranged for organized groups by contacting headquarters.

Directions: From Lake Jackson, go south on FM 2004 to intersection with TX 36. Continue south on FM 2611 for 4 mi. to FM 2918. Go south on FM 2918 1 mi. Turn right onto County Road 306 (gravel) and go 1 mi. to entrance.

40 BRAZOSPORT NATURE CENTER & PLANETARIUM
Owner: Center for the Arts and Sciences 409/265-3376
Nearest Town: Lake Jackson
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/birdingtrails/upper/brazoria/text.htm

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, interpretive exhibits and nature trail

Description: Self-guided tour along 0.2-mile nature trail through bottomland forest on Oyster Creek, an ancient, abandoned channel of the Brazos River. Exhibits are used to present hands-on nature programs to local schools.

Directions: From Business 288 in Lake Jackson, go west on College Blvd. to Brazosport Junior College. Go in first (east) entrance, park at the Center.

Wetlands: Estuarine- constructed nontidal saltwater marsh Prairie pothole and marsh- constructed freshwater marsh

Recreation/Education: aquaria, interpretive displays, touch pools, videos, marine fish hatchery, interpretive marsh boardwalk

Description: Large marine fish hatchery and Visitor Center. Educational aquaria and displays on marine life and coastal habitats. Two 12-foot touch pools for hands-on learning. Adjacent to VC is a 5-acre marsh with shallow ponds, fresh and saltwater marshes, elevated 600-foot walkway and observation deck with interpretive signage, and interpretive displays. Check with Center for open hours, hatchery tours by appointment only.

Directions: In Lake Jackson, exit TX 332 onto Plantation Dr. Go south on Plantation to the Center at 300 Medical Dr.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods

Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, picnicking

Description: County park in the Planter's Point subdivision. Boardwalk through the bottomland forest along the Brazos River. Full park facilities, no fee.

Directions: From Angleton, go west on TX 35 to TX 521. Go north on 521 about 5 mi. to County Rd. 30. Go west on CR 30 to Planter's Point, enter subdivision and follow Colony Lane to park.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods. Prairie pothole and marsh- marshes, managed impoundments

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, camping, hiking/biking, fishing, interpretive nature trail, interpretive/educational programs

Description: About 28 miles south of Houston, area has over 3 miles of Brazos River frontage. Offers ongoing interpretive and education programs every weekend (fee). Disabled- accessible nature trail and interpretive exhibit including boardwalk and observation deck in marsh. Habitats and Niches exhibit includes "hands-on" alligator discovery area. Entrance fee, variable camping fees; contact park for details.

Directions: From Richmond, go about 20 mi. southeast on FM 762. From Houston, go south on TX 288 to Rosharon, then west on FM 1462, then north 1.4 mi. on FM 762.

Wetlands: Riverine forested- bottomland hardwoods

Recreation/Education: wildlife viewing, hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, nature tours

Description: This State Historical Park has bottomland forests on the Brazos River in Austin County. Park has a 5-mile hiking trail and a 0.25-mile nature/interpretive trail. Nature tours given Saturday mornings upon request (no fee). Open everyday year-round; entrance fee.

Directions: From Houston, go west on I-10 to FM 1458 (just east of Sealy). Turn right (north) and go 2.1 mi. on 1458, then left on Park Rd. 38.

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Wetland Sites to Visit - Upper Gulf Coast

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THE BIG THICKET 1 TONY HOUSEMAN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA Owner : Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept. 409/736-2551 Nearest Town: Orange Size: 3,313 acres http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/wma/wmarea/housemann.htm Wetlands: Riverine forested- cypress-tupelo swamp, bottomland hardwoods Recreation: wildlife viewing, hiking, primitive camping, fishing, hunting, canoeing Description : Known as Blue Elbow Swamp, this Sabine River wetland is one of the largest remaining blocks of swamp on the Texas coast.

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A part in 'True Blue Scouts' that made me giggle was toward the end when the Sugar Man is thinking of his cousins the Yeti and Bigfoot, and the author uses the word 'cryptid' followed by '(look it up!)'.  Cryptids are animals whose existence has yet to be proved. Some animals, which have been rarely seen like the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker, where once considered cryptids.

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What kind of animals live in the swamp?
Lots! In Asia, there are even tigers in the swamp! In Florida you can find panthers!

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While looking for the Ivory-billed Woodpecker in Arkansas, Jorge Ribas encounters all kinds of wildlife, including a particularly venomous swamp critter - the Cottonmouth.

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I wonder if there are swamps only in Louisiana?

I've always associated swamps with the deep South, places like Louisiana and Georgia, but I've learned that swamps can be located in many places!
There are freshwater swamps, usually located inland, and saltwater swamps which are located along a coastline.  Swamps are named after the type of trees that grow- hardwood, cypress, etc.
Mangrove trees are abundant in saltwater swamps and many marine animals use roots of Mangrove trees as nurseries (shrimp, fish, etc).
Saltwater swamps also protect the coastlines from washing away during hurricanes and tropical storms.

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A swamp is an area of land permanently saturated, or filled, with water. Many swamps are even covered by water. There are two main types of swamps: freshwater swamps and saltwater swamps.

Swamps are dominated by trees. They are often named for the type of trees that grow in them, such as cypress swamps or hardwood swamps. Freshwater swamps are commonly found inland, while saltwater swamps are usually found along coastal areas. Swamps are transition areas. They are neither totally land nor totally water.

Swamps exist in many kinds of climates and on every continent except Antarctica. They vary in size from isolated prairie potholes to huge coastal salt marshes. Some swamps are flooded woodlands. Some are former lakes or ponds overtaken by trees and shrubs.

Freshwater Swamps

Freshwater swamps form around lakes and streams. Rain and seasonal flooding cause water levels to fluctuate. In the wet soil, water-tolerant vegetation grows and helps maintain a moist, swampy condition.

In many freshwater swamps in the southeastern United States, cypress and tupelo trees grow. Spanish moss may hang from the branches, and tiny plants called duckweed may cover the waters surface. Shrubs and bushes may grow beneath the trees. Sometimes poking as much as 4 meters (13 feet) above the water are angular knobs called cypress knees. They are outgrowths of the trees' root systems.

Alligators, frogs, and many other animals live in these swamps. These animals are adapted to fluctuating water levels. The shadowy tree root system and cypress knobs provide a rich, sheltered habitat for nesting birds, as well as fish, amphibians and reptiles.

The freshwater swamps between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in the Middle East are so rich in biodiversity that the area is called the " Fertile Crescent." The abundant wildlife, agricultural opportunities, and ability for communication and trade fostered human technological development. The Fertile Crescent is recognized as the birthplace of civilization and the site of the first cities. The earliest recorded written language and the first recorded use of the wheel occurred around these swamps.

The Everglades, in Florida, is one of the largest swamp complexes in the United States. Called the " River of Grass," this freshwater swamp is actually a wide, slow-moving river flowing from the Kissimmee River near Orlando to the Straits of Florida. The Everglades is 97 kilometers (60 miles) wide and 160 kilometers (100 miles) long. A rich collection of wildlife, from alligators to panthers, calls this freshwater swamp home.

Saltwater Swamps

Saltwater swamps form on tropical coastlines. Formation of these swamps begins with bare flats of mud and sand that are thinly covered by seawater during high tides. Plants that are able to tolerate tidal flooding, such as mangrove trees, begin to grow and soon form thickets of roots and branches. Mangrove trees often grow on tall, thin roots. The roots anchor sand and other sediments. The growth and decay of the roots increase the accumulation of soil.

Among these mangroves live animals that feed on fallen leaves and other material. Crabs, conchs, and other shellfish are abundant in mangrove swamps. The swamps are also home to a huge variety of birds, whose droppings help fertilize the swamp.

Because the young of many marine animals find food and shelter in saltwater swamps, these wetlands are sometimes called the nurseries of the ocean. Many ocean species enter coastal wetlands to spawn. Fish swim into salt marshes to lay their eggs. When the eggs hatch, the young find plenty of food and some protection in swamp grasses or among tree roots. Other species spawn in the ocean, and the young swim into the wetlands and live there until they mature.

People and swamps

Swamps are among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth. They act like giant sponges or reservoirs. When heavy rains cause flooding, swamps and other wetlands absorb excess water, moderating the effects of flooding. Swamps also protect coastal areas from storm surges that can wash away fragile coastline. Saltwater swamps and tidal salt marshes help anchor coastal soil and sand.

The swamp ecosystem also acts as a water treatment plant, filtering wastes and purifying water naturally. When excess nitrogen and other chemicals wash into swamps, plants there absorb and use the chemicals. Many of these chemicals come from human activities such as agriculture, where fertilizers use nitrogen and phosphorus. Factories, water treatment plants, and homes also contribute to runoff. Chemicals not absorbed by plants slowly sink to the bottom and are buried in sand and sediment.

For most of history, wetlands were looked upon as wastelands, and as homes for insect pests such as mosquitoes. (Swamps are home to a wide variety of insects, which feed on the wide variety of plants.) People thought swamps were sinister and forbidding.

In the United States, filling or draining swamps was an accepted practice. Almost half of U.S. wetlands were destroyed before environmental protections were enacted during the 1970s. Most of the Everglades have been reclaimed as agricultural land, mostly sugar plantations. Draining swampland also created valuable real estate in the San Francisco Bay Area in California.

Federal and state authorities drained much of the wetlands at the delta of the Mississippi River in Louisiana as part of a massive system of river management. When Hurricane Katrina blew in from the Gulf of Mexico in 2005, the spongy swamp that traditionally protected the city of New Orleans from destructive weather patterns was diminished. The city was hit full force with a Category 3 hurricane.

Eradicating swampland also threatens economic activity. Two-thirds of the fish and shellfish that are commercially harvested worldwide are linked with wetlands. From Brazils varzeas, or freshwater swamps surrounding the Amazon River, to saltwater swamps near the Florida Keys, commercially valuable fish species that depend on wetlands are threatened with extinction.

In the early 1970s, governments began enacting laws recognizing the enormous value of swamps and other wetlands. In some parts of the United States, it is now against the law to alter or destroy swamps. Through management plans and stricter laws, people are trying to protect remaining swamps and to re-create them in areas where they have been destroyed.

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Writers

Kim Rutledge
Melissa McDaniel
Diane Boudreau
Tara Ramroop
Santani Teng
Erin Sprout
Hilary Costa
Hilary Hall
Jeff Hunt

Illustrators

Tim Gunther
Mary Crooks, National Geographic Society

Editors

Kara West
Jeannie Evers, Emdash Editing

Educator Reviewer

Nancy Wynne

Producer

Caryl-Sue, National Geographic Society

Sources

Dunn, Margery G. (Editor). (1989, 1993). "Exploring Your World: The Adventure of Geography." Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Society.

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A swamp is an area of land permanently saturated, or filled, with water. Many swamps are even covered by water. There are two main types of swamps: freshwater swamps and saltwater swamps. Swamps are dominated by trees. They are often named for the type of trees that grow in them, such as cypress swamps or hardwood swamps.