In some areas, the wild boar population has declined significantly

In late August 2026, nearly 800 wild boars were removed from areas in Slavonia over a two-week period, according to the Croatian Hunting Association. The operation took place across five Slavonian counties and included both hunting and live capture efforts aimed at controlling the spread of African swine fever. The association noted that some hunting grounds have seen a significant decline in wild boar numbers, with certain areas reporting no sightings at all. These measures are part of broader efforts to reduce the population of wild boars and mitigate the risk of disease transmission. The campaign ran from July 27 to August 10, during which 797 wild boars were either shot or captured alive. In addition to these removals, 178 drives and 2,215 searches of hunting areas were conducted. The actions were carried out in accordance with regulations designed to curb the spread of African swine fever and align with the goals set by relevant authorities. The Croatian Hunting Association worked alongside regional hunting associations, unions, and societies to implement these measures. According to the association’s statement, field data indicate a noticeable reduction in the number of wild boars in specific regions. Some hunting grounds within certain municipalities have recorded no presence of wild boars, confirming the intensity of previous activities. The association emphasized that these operations are not limited to periods of heightened measures but continue throughout the year. Hunters regularly monitor conditions in hunting areas, conduct population surveillance, search territories, and promptly report any observed changes to the appropriate authorities. On August 16, the Croatian Hunting Association organized a joint hunt in the State Open Hunting Ground X/2 "Ćeralije," in collaboration with the "Vepar" Hunting Association from Slatina. This effort was conducted under the order regarding the reduction of the population of a particular species of game. It is important to note that such collective hunts are only permitted outside protected zones, monitoring zones, and infected areas, strictly adhering to existing regulations and protective measures against African swine fever. A key component of implementing these measures includes biosafety activities such as disinfecting equipment, vehicles, and entry points to hunting grounds before and after operations. The handling of culled animals follows guidelines issued by the competent Ministry of Agriculture. These procedures aim to prevent the spread of disease and ensure compliance with health protocols. The Croatian Hunting Association highlighted that activities related to wild boars are not confined to times of intensified measures but are ongoing throughout the entire year. Hunters continuously observe conditions in hunting areas, conduct population monitoring, perform searches, and immediately report any detected changes to the relevant authorities. This consistent approach ensures that wildlife management efforts remain effective and responsive to emerging challenges. The operations reflect a coordinated strategy involving multiple stakeholders, including local hunting organizations and government bodies. The focus on reducing wild boar populations is driven by the need to control African swine fever, a highly contagious viral disease that poses a serious threat to domestic pig farming. By limiting the movement and density of wild boar populations, officials aim to minimize the risk of disease outbreaks in agricultural regions. Efforts to manage wild boar populations involve a combination of direct interventions, such as hunting and live capture, along with preventive measures like regular monitoring and biosafety protocols. These strategies are essential in maintaining ecological balance while protecting livestock from potential disease threats. The success of recent campaigns has led to visible reductions in wild boar numbers in several areas, demonstrating the effectiveness of sustained conservation and disease prevention initiatives.