JACKSON, Miss. — The rising flood waters isn’t just causing headaches for residents in low lying areas, it’s also forcing animals to leave their natural habitats.
One of the bigger concerns for wildlife experts – the appearance of wild hogs in flood zones.
WLBT reported the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks is worried these animals in particular may cause damage to the levees in flooded areas.
The department said they were monitoring the situation, and working with the levee boards to prevent damage.
Wild hogs are known for being destructive.
According to the department’s website, a 2010 USDA study found wild hogs cause more than $1.5 billion in damage each year.
White-tailed deer, wild turkey, and other game and fur-bearing animals are also being seen more as they move to higher ground.
Hunting of any of these animals with the exception of water fowl is off limits because of the flooding.
If you have any questions for the MDWFP you may call one of the Regional Offices:
- North Region: (662) 563-6222
- Central Region: ( 601) 859-3421
- South Region: ( 601) 783-2911
