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Simple Summary: As in the rest of Europe, the Belgian boar population has been tending to increase even with the African Swine Fever prevalence, posing new challenges in their management by hunting. Indeed, wild boars have been massively culled by hunters and other nature managers, but some stakeholders argued that they are sensitive animals and that their welfare matters. In this article, we explore the management of wild boar hunting through a qualitative sociological survey focusing on damage to the welfare of wild animals and ways of limiting it. By identifying, based on the knowledge of hunting stakeholders, a multitude of issues and avenues for action to limit the harm to the welfare of wild boars, this paper highlights the relevance of an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approach to the welfare issues of wild animals. This study advocates including wild animals—wild boars, in this case—as sentient beings whose welfare must be considered and debated in discussions on global health. As in the rest of Europe, the Belgian boar population has been tending to increase, posing new challenges to management by hunting. Moreover, in autumn 2018, the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus penetrated Belgian territory. In response to this so-called overpopulation and to this health crisis, wild boars were massively culled by hunters and other nature managers. The wild boar was then debated by some stakeholders as a sensitive animal and that its welfare mattered even if it must still be killed. In this article, we explore the management of wild boar through a qualitative sociological survey focusing on damage to the welfare of wild animals and ways of limiting it. This survey is part of an innovative process launched by the Walloon Region and the Walloon Council for Animal Welfare (CWBEA). It was conducted in order to qualitatively describe current hunting practices and their impact on animal welfare; it then integrated knowledge from the human sciences into the CWBEA's work; and, finally, those from the hunting world were invited to debate with the usual animal welfare advocates and managers. By identifying, based on the knowledge of hunting stakeholders and wildlife specialists, a multitude of issues and avenues for action to limit the harm to the welfare of wild boars, this paper highlights the relevance of an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approach to the welfare issues of wild animals. It supports the hypothesis that animal welfare advocates can work toward establishing new norms in human/nonhuman relationships in collaboration with hunters but also to include wild animals—wild boars in this case—as sentient beings whose welfare must be considered and debated in discussions on global health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eurasian wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a key wildlife host for tuberculosis (TB) in central and southwestern Spain, posing a challenge to TB eradication in livestock. New strategies, including the use of beneficial microbes, are being explored to mitigate wildlife diseases. This study evaluated the effect of oral supplementation with postbiotic antimycobacterial metabolites produced using Ingulados' lactic acid bacteria (LAB) collection on TB development in wild boar. A total of 20 game estates in mid-western Spain were divided into two groups: one fed with standard feed containing the postbiotic product and a control group fed without postbiotics. Data were collected from wild boar during hunting events pre- and post-supplementation. The presence of TB-like lesions (TBLLs), lesion severity and seropositivity against Mycobacterium bovis were assessed. Postbiotic supplementation led to a 36.87% reduction in TBLLs and a 35.94% decrease in seropositivity. Notably, young wild boar showed a 64.72% reduction in TBLLs and an 81.80% drop in seropositivity, suggesting reduced transmission. These findings support the potential of postbiotics as a safe, feasible and sustainable tool to control TB in wild boar, offering a promising addition to broader TB eradication efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild ungulate population management in Europe and North America is mainly based on hunting. However, populations continue to grow despite hunting pressure, particularly wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations, with significant economic and environmental consequences. Meanwhile, hunters' number is declining. In order to understand the hunting effectiveness and to improve management strategies, the cullability conceptual framework, derived from fisheries science, can be applied to the harvesting of terrestrial species. Cullability refers to the probability of culling an individual under specific hunting conditions and can vary in space and time depending on the behavior of the animals and the conditions affecting hunters. While cullability represents a probability of cull, combined with hunting effort, the result is the hunting success, i.e. number of harvested individuals, corresponding to hunting bag result. Using a unique hunting bag dataset including 330,000 hunting trips collected over more than 10 years in Southern France based on daily hunting and weather data, we seek to understand the impact of weather conditions on hunting success and hunting effort using a Bayesian model selection approach. We found that weather conditions significantly affect both hunting success and effort and reveal a reduction in hunting success under rainy and cold conditions, in contrast to a significant increase in success under frost and snowfall. Interestingly, all weather conditions outside the comfort zone of hunters lead to a decrease in hunting effort. This raises interesting questions about the hunters' perception of hunting success, as weather can negatively impact the allocation of hunting effort in situations of potentially greater hunting success. The cullability framework provides a clear understanding of the hunting process by separating all its components, proposing a clear glossary, and identifying the factors that enable hunting success to be interpreted. In a context where hunting is a management tool, each component can represent one of these tools, which can either be controlled or accounted for better in space and time. Cullability framework and Bayesian modelling reveal non-concomitant impact of weather conditions on hunting success and effort for wild boar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work constitutes an approach to hunting management in Uruguay. We have focused on wild boar hunting, the most widespread form of recreational hunting in this country. We explored the connections and discrepancies between the different actors based on a qualitative study conducted with conservationists, animal rights groups, nature managers, and hunters. The informality of hunting and the lack of population studies on wildlife were the main concerns raised while hunting with dogs was the most controversial issue. These results allowed us to propose some potential management actions to improve hunting management: issuing a hunting license, regulating hunting with dogs, developing collaborative wildlife monitoring, promoting new technologies within the framework of ethical hunting, and developing a realistic and effective poaching control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of raw or undercooked wild boar (WB) meat is considered an important risk factor for hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in humans. The possibility of HEV contamination during the slaughtering practices may pose an additional risk. Based on these assumptions, we evaluated HEV contamination of WB meat hunted in Umbria (central Italy) during the 2022–2023 hunting season by real-time RT-PCR. Herein, we show that 10.8% of livers from slaughtered WB were positive for HEV RNA, thus providing an estimate of HEV infection in WB in the Umbria region. Then, by evaluating paired liver–muscle samples from both HEV-positive and HEV-negative animals, we found evidence of muscle HEV contamination in 33% and 14% of cases, respectively. This is the first report on the detection of HEV in WB meat in Umbria, an Italian region with diffuse WB hunting and consumption. The evidence of contamination provided by our study underscores the importance of adopting good hygienic practices in the processing stages of hunted WB carcasses to significantly reduce meat contamination and the risk posed for the final consumer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the concept of wild boars as beasts of the Anthropocene by examining their physicality and the policies focused on controlling their populations. Considering the labeling and perception of the species as a beast, the study investigates the sociopolitical implications of such categorization. Specifically, it examines how wild boars have been described and portrayed as intimidating, dangerous, and threatening within Uruguay’s hunting and conservation communities. By analyzing the processes that frame the lives of wild boars and render them legitimate targets of eradication, this article sheds light on the semiotics and naming of wild boars’ changing corporeality throughout history. It reveals how the hunting community motivates their practices by portraying themselves as guardians of biodiversity and agricultural production rather than mere leisure hunters. I argue that the notion of beastliness is instrumental in wildlife management strategies employed for wild boars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few landscapes on earth remain free of human‐modification, which may influence resource selection in wildlife. To investigate the effects of anthropic pressure on wild boar (Sus scrofa) and explore management implications, we studied how diel resource selection of the species' main life stages changed with spatial variations of human access (e.g., for recreation), temporal changes in hunting pressure, and habitat type. Using 206,461 hourly GPS‐locations of 15 males, 11 females with dependent young, and 17 other females from south‐western Germany, we found anthropic pressure influenced resource selection more than ecological factors. All boars were more likely to select for low human‐access areas than high human‐access areas, regardless of habitat. Hunting pressure was most avoided by females with dependent piglets, followed by males and other females. Since both hunting activity and general human access affected resource selection, they should be considered simultaneously in wildlife management and conservation. We suggest the further establishment of wildlife reserves that are inaccessible to people where boar may remain more localized, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission, and boar hunting to focus on open lands and refuge boundaries to reduce crop damage. This may also benefit overall human‐wildlife coexistence, animal welfare, and biodiversity conservation in anthropized environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) caused by Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.) is a zoonotic neglected tropical disease endemic in Italy, which perpetuates in several intermediate hosts, including wild boars, and dogs as definitive hosts. People living in rural and livestock-raising areas are exposed to E. granulosus s.l. infection, as well as people leading outdoor activities in endemic regions. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the exposure to Echinococcus spp. in wild boar hunters, the role of their hunting dogs as parasite reservoirs, along with hunter's knowledge on the infection risk.From December 2022 to May 2023, wild boar hunters (n = 122) from southern Italy were recruited on volunteer basis for blood and serum sampling and a questionnaire enquiring socio-demographic, anamnestic data and knowledge on CE was also filled out. Sera were tested for Echinococcus spp. IgG by a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Euroimmun ELISA®, Germany). In addition, faecal samples from their hunting dogs (n = 208) were screened for Taeniidae eggs by parasitological and molecular approaches.Overall, six (4.9 %) hunters scored either positive or borderline for IgG anti-Echinococcus spp., of which one presented a calcified hepatic cyst at abdominal ultrasonography. In addition, 6.3 % Taeniidae prevalence was recorded in faecal samples (13/208) of hunting dogs, and E. granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) was molecularly identified in two samples. The statistical analysis revealed the risk factors (odds ratio > 1, p < 0.05) associated with parasitic exposure, including the hunter geographical provenience, and the presence of animals around or in the house.The E. granulosus s.l. exposure of hunters herein detected, coupled with the parasite molecular positivity of their hunting dogs and the limited awareness on Echinococcus spp. life cycle/infection risk, highlight the relevance to promote health surveillance and educational programs within the hunting category, for minimizing the cestode circulation in the wildlife-urban premises.

Environmental pollution results in serious health hazards to animals, reflected in biogenic and risk element concentrations in animal tissues. The objective of this study was to examinate concentration of selected elements in testes, and epididymal spermatozoa motility of wild boars. Wild boars were hunted in region Žuhračka - Levice, Slovak Republic. Testes were removed postmortem, spermatozoa were collected from cauda epididymis and assessed by CASA system. Elements concentrations were measured by ICP and by CV-AAS. Spermatozoa motility was 44.29% and progressive motility 18.47%. Concentration of elements in testes was in following order: K > Na > Mg > Ca > Fe > Zn > Al > Cu > Se > Mn > As > Cr > Pb > Mo > Sr > Ni > Ba > Cd > Li > Hg. The most notable correlations indicate association between Se and total spermatozoa motility, as well as with progressive motility, furthermore between As and velocity curved line and beat cross frequency. A high positive significant correlation was found between mercury and beat cross frequency. The data may serve as a fine control indicator to detect potentially toxic elements accumulated from polluted environment that can affect reproduction of wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine circoviruses (PCVs) are widely distributed in swine herds. PCV2, the significant swine pathogen, causes infections characterized by growth and development disorders, skin lesions, and respiratory distress. PCV3 has been circulating worldwide and can be associated with various clinical signs and disease developments. Wild boars are the main reservoir of these pathogens in wildlife and can create an alarming threat to pig farming. In Russia, three PCV2 genotypes (PCV2a, PCV2b, and PCV2d) were identified in pig farms. Additionally, PCV3 was observed in pig herds during the monitoring studies in the country. However, data considering the circulation of PCVs in herds of wild boars in Russia is scant. For this purpose, we performed PCR assays of the samples from 30 wild boars hunted in the Moscow Region of Russia in 2021–2023. The ratios of wild boars positive for PCV2, PCV3, or coinfected were 50, 10, and 13.3%, respectively. Additionally, we sequenced 15 PCV2 and four PCV3 complete genomes and conducted phylogenetic analysis, which divided PCV2 isolates into two groups: PCV2d and PCV2b. The study showed a high infection rate of PCV2 among wild boars, with PCV2d dominance. Simultaneously, PCV3 also circulates among wild boars. The obtained results can provide a basis for the development of preventive measures to support infection transmission risks between farm and wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human landscape-transforming activities contribute to the global change in vegetation in different forms. Hunting is one of the most ancient human landscape-shaping activities. Feeders for hunting are particularly disruptive to vegetation. In the present study, we conducted a vegetation survey in these highly disturbed places. We investigated the vegetation dynamics over several years in the turkey oak–sessile oak zone, in two areas with different moisture and shade conditions (forest and clearing). Important background factors are the changes in precipitation and temperature. Our results confirm that weed infestation is detectable at bait sites over a long period. The seasonal changes in field weed vegetation, as well as the increase in the number and coverage of weed species at the end of summer, resulting from lifestyle characteristics, were generally detectable in all years and locations, especially in the case of open and more strongly degraded clearings. Meteorological factors played a role in the degree of weed infestation in each year. Degradation was more significant in drought years, while regeneration was also observed in wetter periods. At baits located in the clearing, we showed a positive correlation between the amount of summer precipitation and the total coverage of weed species, as well as between the average spring temperature and the coverage of certain weed species. With the drying of the climate, the disturbed areas are constantly losing their natural value, but wetter weather is not an automatic solution either. Considering that there are approx. 30,000 bait sites in the country, and they are used regularly and very intensively, they can serve as major infection hotspots for alien species in a network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first case of African swine fever (ASF) was confirmed in Sweden in September 2023. This article describes the local epidemiology, including the spatiotemporal dynamics of the outbreak and some of the factors that may have contributed to its apparently successful eradication. Upon detection of the outbreak, strict control measures were put in place in a preliminarily defined infected zone. A carcass search, including geo‐localisation, removal, sampling, and destruction of found carcasses, was initiated and a preliminary core area was defined based on the results. Six months after confirmation of the first case, 93 wild boar carcasses had been found in the infected zone, of which 62 tested positive for ASF virus (ASFV). All ASFV‐positive carcasses were found inside the core area. Based on two taphonomy methods, it was assumed that the infection was introduced between early May and late June 2023. The data also indicated that the epidemic curve peaked between mid‐August and mid‐September, with the last death occurring in late September 2023. Based on the average estimated time of death, geo‐localisation of carcasses and two‐dimensional kernel density estimation, clustering in space and time was identified. An online questionnaire with questions about hunting and the wild boar population was sent to all leaders of hunting groups in the infected zone. The results showed that the wild boar population had increased in the last 10 years but with large variations and geographical heterogeneity in space use. Disease introduction through natural wild boar movements was excluded and it was assumed that the long‐distance translocation of the virus had occurred through human activities. A municipal waste collection centre without wild boar‐proof fencing is located close to the epicentre of the outbreak, attracting many wild boar and contributing to the spread of the virus once it had been introduced to the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study focused on investigating the presence of porcine cytomegalovirus (PCMV) and other viral infections in Serbian wild boars. Using real-time PCR, samples from 50 wild boars were analyzed for PCMV, Aujeszky disease virus (ADV), Porcine parvovirus (PPV), and Porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). Results revealed an 8% PCMV infection rate, with females showing higher susceptibility. PPV was detected in 56% of samples and ADV in 18%, while PRRSV was not found. These findings underscore the zoonotic potential of PCMV and highlight wild boars as reservoirs of various pathogens, posing risks to both the pig industry and public health. Porcine cytomegalovirus (PCMV) infection is widespread worldwide and has a high prevalence in swine herds, especially in countries with intensive swine production. PCMV is zoonotic and can impact xenotransplants. It is the third swine virus known to be zoonotic, following swine influenza virus (influenza A) and hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEVgt3 or HEV-3). Wild boars, serving as reservoirs for various pathogens, including PCMV, pose a risk to both the pig industry and public health. This study aimed to investigate PCMV infection in Serbian wild boars using real-time PCR and assess other viral infections. We also tested samples for the presence of other viral infections: Aujeszky disease virus (ADV), Porcine parvovirus (PPV) and Porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome (PRRSV). Samples from 50 wild boars across 3 districts were tested. Results showed 8% positivity for PCMV DNA, with females showing higher infection rates. Porcine parvovirus (PPV) was detected in 56% of samples, while Porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) was absent. ADV was found in 18% of samples, primarily in younger animals. This research contributes to understanding PCMV prevalence in Serbian wild boars and emphasizes the importance of monitoring viral infections in wild populations, considering the potential zoonotic and economic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey was conducted from 2018 to 2023 to assess the presence of Salmonella in 280 hunted wild boar (carcasses after evisceration and skinning, N = 226; liver, N = 258; and fecal samples, N = 174). The overall prevalence was 2.86% (confidence interval 95%, 1.45–5.45%) with five positive samples detected in carcasses, three in the liver, and one in a fecal sample. This prevalence was in line with those found in nearby areas denoting a low number of positive samples. Positive animals were over 24 months of age and weighed, before skinning, 59.00 ± 9.11 Kg and no difference was detected in microbial loads between samples positive and negative for Salmonella (aerobic colony count of 4.59 and 4.66 log CFU/400 cm2, and Enterobacteriaceae count of 2.89 and 2.73 log CFU/400 cm2 (mean values) in positive and negative subjects, respectively). Salmonella Stanleyville was the most frequently isolated serotype. A semiquantitative risk assessment was conducted for the first time in game meat considering two products, meat cuts intended for cooking and fermented dry sausages. Only proper cooking can reduce the risk of ingestion of Salmonella to the minimum for consumers, whereas ready-to-eat dry sausages constitute risk products in terms of foodborne Salmonellosis (risk score of 64 out of 100). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring disease among wildlife is critical to preserving health in both domestic animals and wildlife, and it becomes much more critical when the diseases cause significant economic damage to the livestock industry or threaten public health. Given the continuous increase in populations and its role as a reservoir for several infections, wild boar (Sus scrofa) requires special attention regarding disease surveillance and monitoring. In this study, we investigated the molecular prevalence of selected pathogens in the wild boar population of Campania, southern Italy. The prevalence of pathogens causing reproductive problems in pigs (Sus domesticus), including porcine parvovirus (PPV), porcine circovirus types 2 and 3 (PCV-2 and PCV-3), pseudorabies virus (PRV), Coxiella burnetii, and Brucella suis, was evaluated by testing the reproductive organs collected from 63 wild boars with polymerase chain reaction. The most common pathogens were PPV (44.4%) and two porcine circoviruses (14.3%). PRV and C. burnetii, on the other hand, showed a significantly lower prevalence (1.6%). No reproductive organs tested were positive for B. suis. Risk factor analysis revealed a correlation between age and PCV-2 positivity, with animals less than 12 months old having significantly higher prevalence rates. Our findings suggest that wild boars hunted in the Campania region harbour several infections potentially transmissible to other mammals' reproductive tracts. Furthermore, our results emphasized the importance of strict adherence to biosecurity protocols on domestic swine farms, especially on free-range farms, to avoid interactions between domestic and wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional characteristics of hunted wild boar (WB) meat and compare them with those of meat from analogous domestic animals (pigs) reared in two different rearing systems: indoor-intensive (PI) and outdoor-extensive (PO). WB meat showed a lower amount of lipid content compared to pork and a higher antioxidant activity compared to PI and PO. The comparison of the fatty acid composition of WB and domestic pig reveals significant differences in saturated fatty acids (SFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), with WB having the highest PUFA level and the lowest SFA. The omega 6/omega 3 (n-6/n-3) PUFA ratio, PUFA/SFA, atherogenic and thrombogenic indices (AI and TI), as well as the hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic index (h/H), were calculated. The n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio was higher in pork independently of the rearing system. The PUFA/SFA ratio of WB meat was above the minimum ratio of 0.40 recommended to contribute to a reduction in the risk of coronary diseases in pork from both rearing systems. AI and TI were lower in WB meat compared to commercially reared pigs, while h/H was higher in WB in comparison with pork meat. WB meat shows good nutritional quality; therefore, the use of game meat as a food source could be appropriate and could benefit contemporary consumers looking for "green" and high-nutritional products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article in the magazine "Environmental Legal News" reports that Catalonia has approved an Order to regulate wild boar hunting and prevent diseases that affect the species. The importance of controlling African swine fever and bovine tuberculosis, diseases that can be transmitted to domestic animals, is highlighted. The Order aims to promote the hunting of wild boars and their commercialization as a preventive measure and for environmental balance. [Extracted from the article]

Targeted search for wild boar carcasses is essential for successful control of African swine fever (ASF) in wild boar populations. To examine whether landscape conditions influence the probability of finding ASF-positive carcasses, this study analyzed Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates of Latvian wild boar carcasses and hunted wild boar, extracted from the CSF/ASF wild boar surveillance database of the European Union, and random coordinates in Latvia. Geographic information system (GIS) software was used to determine the landscape type and landscape composition of carcass detection sites and to measure distances from the carcasses to nearest waterbodies, forest edges, roads and settlements. The results of the automated measurements were validated by manually analyzing a smaller sample. Wild boar carcasses were found predominantly in forested areas and closer to waterbodies and forest edges than random GPS coordinates in Latvia. Carcasses of ASF-infected wild boar were found more frequently in transitional zones between forest and woodland shrub, and at greater distances from roads and settlements compared to ASF-negative carcasses and random points. This leads to the hypothesis, that ASF-infected animals seek shelter in quiet areas further away from human disturbance. A detailed collection of information on the environment surrounding carcass detection sites is needed to characterize predilection sites more accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The only natural hosts of Pseudorabies virus (PRV) are members of the family Suidae (Sus scrofa scrofa). In mammals, the infection is usually fatal and typically causes serious neurologic disease. This study describes four Aujeszky's disease cases in free-ranging Italian wolves (Canis lupus italicus). In Italy, the wolf is a strictly protected species and is in demographic expansion. Case presentation: Three wolves (Wolf A, B, and C) were found in a regional park in Northern Italy, and one (Wolf D) was found in Central Italy. Wolf A and D were alive at the time of the finding and exhibited a fatal infection with epileptic seizures and dyspnoea, dying after a few hours. Wolf B presented scratching lesions under the chin and a detachment of the right earlobe, whilst Wolf C was partially eaten. The wolves showed hepatic congestion, diffuse enteritis, moderate pericardial effusion, severe bilateral pneumonia, and diffuse hyperaemia in the brain. The diagnostic examinations included virological analyses and detection of toxic molecules able to cause serious neurological signs. All four wolves tested positive for pseudorabies virus (PrV). The analysed sequences were placed in Italian clade 1, which is divided into two subclades, "a" and "b". The sequences of Wolf A, B, and C were closely related to other Italian sequences in the subclade b, originally obtained from wild boars and hunting dogs. The sequence from Wolf D was located within the same clade and was closely related to the French hunting dog sequences belonging to group 4. Conclusion: Results showed the presence of PrV strains currently circulating in wild boars and free-ranging Italian wolves. The genetic characterisation of the PrV UL44 sequences from the four wolves confirmed the close relationship with the sequences from wild boars and hunting dogs. This fact supports a possible epidemiological link with the high PrV presence in wild boars and the possibility of infection in wolves through consumption of infected wild boar carcasses or indirect transmission. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first detection of Pseudorabies virus in free-ranging Italian wolves in northern and central Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The wild boar Sus scrofa is considered as one of the main agricultural pests by farmers. Hunting is a common strategy used across Europe to reduce wild boar abundance and, in turn, damages to agricultural crops. However, results are still debated. In this research, data on official claims (i.e., damages to crops), wild boar local counts and hunting bags collected from 2019 to 2022 were analysed to ascertain the effect of the hunting system carried out in the north-east of Italy on the number of crop damages. The findings obtained showed no clear spatial overlap among wild boar hunting, wild boar density and damages to agriculture. Furthermore, the current hunting system did not produce significant effects on crop damages by wild boar. The numeric control of the species oriented towards more age classes in a similar percentage should be preferred to mitigate damages. Hunting is a method commonly used in several European countries to reduce crop damages by wild boar Sus scrofa. However, results are still controversial and poorly treated. Using data on official claims (i.e., damages to crops) and wild boar local counts and hunting bags collected from 2019 to 2022, the purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of the hunting system (divided into eradication and non-eradication areas) carried out in the north-east of Italy on the number of agricultural damages. The spatio-temporal distribution of wild boar hunting, density and damages as well as the effect of hunting, were evaluated through the hotspot analysis and the zero-inflated models, respectively. The results obtained revealed no clear spatial overlap among wild boar hunting, wild boar density and damages to agriculture in both the eradication and non-eradication areas. Moreover, the current level of harvesting did not significantly affect the number of agricultural damages. A multifaceted approach focused on the numeric control of the species based on accurate local counts and oriented towards more age classes in a similar percentage should be preferred to mitigate damages to cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gunshot wound on the left regio articulationis humeri, in a female wild boar (Sus scrofa L.,), involving the scapula and humerus due to an inaccurate shot with a lead bullet, was described. The left and right scapula and humerus were compared to highlight the difference in the bone defects that occurred, and the corresponding changes were measured osteometrically. X-rays of the bones were also performed to detect possible projectile debris (bullets). The reported case proves that the secondary self-healing of the blind gunshot wound causes a massive bone reaction (enthesophyte), which was not the cause of the death of the animal. Subsequently the discovery of such a regenerative process may influence the organoleptic meat examination after shooting, in wild boar hunting and has an eco-toxicological meaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate Salmonella and Yersinia enterocolitica prevalence in wild boars hunted in Sardinia and further characterize the isolates and analyse antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns. In order to assess slaughtering hygiene, an evaluation of carcasses microbial contamination was also carried out. Between 2020 and 2022, samples were collected from 66 wild boars hunted during two hunting seasons from the area of two provinces in northern and central Sardinia (Italy). Samples collected included colon content samples, mesenteric lymph nodes samples and carcass surface samples. Salmonella and Y. enterocolitica detection was conducted on each sample; also, on carcass surface samples, total aerobic mesophilic count and Enterobacteriaceae count were evaluated. On Salmonella and Y. enterocolitica isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility was tested and whole genome sequencing was applied. Salmonella was identified in the colon content samples of 3/66 (4.5%) wild boars; isolates were S. enterica subs. salamae, S. ser. elomrane and S. enterica subs. enterica. Y. enterocolitica was detected from 20/66 (30.3%) wild boars: in 18/66 (27.3%) colon contents, in 3/66 (4.5%) mesenteric lymph nodes and in 3/49 (6.1%) carcass surface samples. In all, 24 Y. enterocolitica isolates were analysed and 20 different sequence types were detected, with the most common being ST860. Regarding AMR, no resistance was detected in Salmonella isolates, while expected resistance towards β-lactams (blaA gene) and streptogramin (vatF gene) was observed in Y. enterocolitica isolates (91.7% and 4.2%, respectively). The low presence of AMR is probably due to the low anthropic impact in the wild areas. Regarding the surface contamination of carcasses, values (mean ± standard deviation log10 CFU/cm2) were 2.46 ± 0.97 for ACC and 1.07 ± 1.18 for Enterobacteriaceae. The results of our study confirm that wild boars can serve as reservoirs and spreaders of Salmonella and Y. enterocolitica; the finding of Y. enterocolitica presence on carcass surface highlights how meat may become superficially contaminated, especially considering that contamination is linked to the conditions related to the hunting, handling and processing of game animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wild boars (Sus scrofa) may cause substantial damage to crops and can spread zoonotic parasites to domestic animals, posing a risk to health and animal production. Metastrongylus spp. can negatively affect the wild boar population, increasing piglet mortality. In addition to that, studies with Metastrongylus genetic characterization are still scarce in Brazil. The present study aims to characterize Metastrongylus spp. from wild boars hunted in the states of São Paulo, Paraná, and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, using traditional morphological description and DNA sequences in an integrative taxonomic approach. Methods: After nematode collection from 58 wild boars, the parasites were morphologically identified and genetically characterized by the amplification of 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA), 28S rDNA, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, and cox-1 mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Descriptors of infection were determined and Pearson's Chi-square test was applied to compare the prevalence of infections among the identified parasite species, host age group (juveniles and adults), and sex. The Mann–Whitney U test was performed to compare the mean intensity between the age groups and sex. Results: Metastrongylus salmi, Metastrongylus apri, and Metastrongylus pudendotectus were identified in 77.6% (45/58) of the necropsied wild boars. Metastrongylus salmi was the most prevalent and abundant species (70.7%, 11.1), followed by M. pudendotectus (18.9%, 4.3) and M. apri (17.2%, 2.2). Metastrongylus pudendotectus showed the highest mean intensity and range (25.2, 1–93), followed by M. salmi (15.7, 1–58) and M. apri (12.6, 3–27). We found a significantly higher prevalence of Metastrongylus spp. and M. salmi in adult wild boars, probably associated with a more prolonged time of exposure to intermediate host species. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that ITS2 region and cox-1 mtDNA are the most suitable genetic markers for Metastrongylus species characterization. Genetic variability between M. apri and M. salmi isolates was verified. Conclusions: We expand the knowledge about the Metastrongylus community in the non-captive wild boar population from Brazil as well as the importance of this exotic species in the maintenance of Metastrongylus spp. in its areas of occurrence. The novel genetic sequences obtained may help further studies to understand the genetic diversity in other nematode populations from Brazil and other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human landscape-transforming activities contribute to the global change in vegetation in different forms. Hunting is one of the most ancient human landscape-shaping activities. Feeders for hunting are particularly disruptive to vegetation. In the present study, we conducted a vegetation survey in these highly disturbed places. We investigated the vegetation dynamics over several years in the turkey oak–sessile oak zone, in two areas with different moisture and shade conditions (forest and clearing). Important background factors are the changes in precipitation and temperature. Our results confirm that weed infestation is detectable at bait sites over a long period. The seasonal changes in field weed vegetation, as well as the increase in the number and coverage of weed species at the end of summer, resulting from lifestyle characteristics, were generally detectable in all years and locations, especially in the case of open and more strongly degraded clearings. Meteorological factors played a role in the degree of weed infestation in each year. Degradation was more significant in drought years, while regeneration was also observed in wetter periods. At baits located in the clearing, we showed a positive correlation between the amount of summer precipitation and the total coverage of weed species, as well as between the average spring temperature and the coverage of certain weed species. With the drying of the climate, the disturbed areas are constantly losing their natural value, but wetter weather is not an automatic solution either. Considering that there are approx. 30,000 bait sites in the country, and they are used regularly and very intensively, they can serve as major infection hotspots for alien species in a network.

Simple Summary: Swine erysipelas (SE), caused by the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, is a relevant zoonotic disease affecting domestic pigs. However, there are scarce studies on the occurrence of SE in hunted wild boar and, consequently, on its role as a reservoir and spill over to other animals and humans. This lack of knowledge, which also applies to the Portuguese wild boar, triggered the development of this first survey. Of the 111 wild boars sampled, seroprevalence was 16.2% (95% CI: 19.9–24.4%), pointing out the importance of this infection in the wild boar population. Given its zoonotic nature, it can have serious repercussions on people who handle and eviscerate the carcasses of hunted wild boar, especially hunters. Thus, the need for further studies to improve the epidemiological knowledge of ES in the wild boar population in Portugal is emphasized. Moreover, the need to adopt preventive measures and train the various stakeholders, especially hunters, who are in direct contact with these wild populations on a daily basis and are at risk of exposure to this infectious agent, is underlined. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a relevant zoonotic infectious agent causing swine erysipelas (SE) in wild boar. In Portugal, there is no information on its occurrence. For this reason, this study aims to perform a first serosurvey of SE in hunted wild boars in Portugal. During the 2019/2020 hunting season, 111 sera from hunted wild boar were collected and analysed serologically in the laboratory with a commercial ELISA kit. No animals were eviscerated and examined after the hunt. The hunters took it all for private consumption. The results identified 18 animals that were exposed to SE, corresponding to a seroprevalence of 16.2% (95% CI: 19.9–24.4%). No statistical significance was observed on the effect of gender and age on seropositivity. However, wild boar hunted in Pinhel County, had five times more likely to be seropositivity (p-value < 0.05; OD = 5.4). Apart from its potential debilitating capacity and chronicity in the wild boar population, SE is also a very serious occupational zoonosis. Thus, the result of this first serosurvey in Portugal should raise awareness and alert competent national veterinary authorities and those involved in the hunting sector, especially hunters who directly handle these carcasses. Further studies should be conducted to better understand the role of wild boar as a reservoir and spillover of this disease to other animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Worms of the nematode genus Trichinella are zoonotic pathogens with a worldwide distribution. The first report of Trichinella on the Mediterranean island of Sardinia was for Trichinella britovi, one of the four species of this genus circulating in Europe, which was identified in 2005 following an outbreak of trichinellosis in humans due to the consumption of pork from pigs reared in the wild. Since then, T. britovi larvae have been repeatedly isolated from free-ranging pigs, foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and wild boars (Sus scrofa) sampled in the central-eastern region of the island (Orgosolo municipality), but have never been isolated from samples from other areas of the island. The aim of this study was to investigate the parasitological and serological prevalence of T. britovi infection in wild boars in Sardinia over space [eight wild boar hunting management units (HMUs)] and time (seven wild boar hunting seasons). Methods: Muscle and serum samples of boars killed in the 2014–2015 to 2020–2121 hunting seasons were collected from eight HMUs of central and south-western Sardinia. Trichinella sp. larvae were detected by artificial digestion of predilection muscles. A total of 4111 serum samples of wild boar were collected from the investigated HMUs and tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay as a screening test and by western blot as a confirmatory test using excretory/secretory antigens. Results: Trichinella britovi muscle larvae were detected in six (0.03%) of the 17,786 wild boars tested. All of the Trichinella sp.-positive wild boars had been hunted in Orgosolo municipality (central-eastern area of the island), except for one, hunted in a neighboring municipality. An overall serological prevalence of 3.8% (95% confidence interval, 3.3–4.5) was detected by western blot. No statistical differences were detected between the HMUs where T. britovi larvae were detected in wild boars, foxes, and free-ranging pigs and those where wild boars, foxes and free-ranging pigs tested negative. Conclusions: The serological prevalence did not vary between the wild boar populations in which the larval load was detectable by artificial digestion (Orgosolo municipality) and those in which the larval load was below the detection limit. Furthermore, the serological prevalence of anti-Trichinella immunoglobulin G in the wild boar populations remained constant during the study period, which covered seven wild boar hunting seasons. As the transmission events (i.e., the serological prevalence) are stable, the high biomass of the parasite in Orgosolo municipality can only have arisen as a consequence of factors independent of its natural cycle, i.e., the presence of a high number of free-ranging pigs, and the concomitant presence of African swine fever, due to illegal pig slaughtering in the field. This epidemiological situation suggests that the natural cycle of T. britovi may be influenced by inappropriate pig husbandry and slaughtering practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a mycotoxin produced by fungi belonging to the genera Fusarium spp. and commonly found in feed and food. It is frequently related to reproductive disorders in farm animals and, occasionally, to hyperestrogenic syndromes in humans. Nowadays, knowledge about ZEN effects on wild boars (Sus scrofa) is extremely scarce, despite the fact that they represent one of the most hunted game species in Italy. The aim of this study was to investigate how ZEN affects the liver, kidney, and muscle oxidative status and morphology of wild boars hunted in various locations throughout the province of Avellino, Campania Region, Southern Italy, during the 2021–2022 hunting season. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, as well as the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, were assessed by colorimetric assays; tissue morphology was evaluated by hematoxylin–eosin and Masson's stains. Our data showed that ZEN contamination might result in oxidative stress (OS) and some histopathological alterations in wild boars' livers and kidneys rather than in muscles, emphasizing the importance of developing a wildlife monitoring and management strategy for dealing not only with the problem of ZEN but the surveillance of mycotoxins in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern hunting is an ambivalent practice, torn between leisure and labor. Nowhere are these conflicting dimensions better manifested than for wild boar—a simultaneous game and pest species in many countries. Here, we consider the sociological, political and cultural phenomenon of wild boar hunting from a change perspective, starting at its historical roots to future implications concerning the changing demographics, drivers, needs and practices of a modernizing hunting community. Using the case context of France, we present an approach to deconstructing each component of wild boar hunting firstly, and subsequently the external forces that change the nature of hunting. The objective of this manuscript is to discuss of the wild boar optimal harvesting to be applied in changing social and ecological environment. Findings show that the challenges facing wild boar management will likely intensify in the future, especially under the spotlight of a controversial public debate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The aim of this work was to study the functional-technological, structural-mechanical, and antioxidant properties of wild boar meat as a perspective for meat processing and its comparative assessment with the meat of pigs grown in industrial conditions. Materials and methods. The subject of the research was the longest back muscle (Longissimus dorsi) of a wild boar hunted in hunting grounds, as well as pork from industrial farms in the Sumy region, Ukraine. Results and discussion. The work established that the meat of wild boars (Sus scrofa) has a high nutritional value, namely a higher protein content - 22.98 ±1.16%, a low fat content - 1.84 ±0.19% and, accordingly, a lower energy value - 115.49 kcal/100 g compared to the meat of domestic pigs. The conducted studies showed that the meat of wild pigs (Sus scrofa) has sufficiently high functional and technological indicators and is not inferior to the meat of industrial pigs. It was experimentally proven that the pH of the meat ranged from 6.7 in 1 hour after slaughter to 6.21 in 24 hours after slaughter. It was established that the water-binding capacity of wild boar meat is 51.8 ±0.11%, the water holding capacity is 68.2±0.20%, and the fat holding capacity is 40.2 ±0.13%. The meat of wild boars was characterized by a denser structure and consistency compared to the raw material of industrial pigs, regardless of the thermal condition. Minced meat from wild boar demonstrated the strongest properties: 2373.15 ±40.88 Pa*s in the cured state and 2504.31 ±61.09 Pa*s in the cooled state. The extent of technological losses during cooling, storage, and cooking for wild boar meat was less than for pork by 27.35, 25.93, and 11.57%, respectively. The dynamics of oxidation processes in wild boar meat was lower than in domestic pork. The concentration of free fatty acids in wild boar meat at the end of 16 days of chilled meat storage was lower by 26.67%, and peroxides were lower by 25.2%. Conclusion. The meat of a wild boar is not inferior to the meat of domestic pork in terms of its functional, technological, and rheological properties, and according to certain indicators, it has a higher quality. Due to the low rate of oxidative deterioration, it can be stored longer than pork. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV) primarily infects domestic pigs and wild boars, causing the abortion and death of young piglets due to central nervous system disorders. In Japan, the national eradication program for ADV in domestic pigs has been successful in most prefectures; however, concern has been raised regarding ADV-infected wild boars as a source of transmission to domestic pigs. Results: We assessed the nationwide seroprevalence of ADV among wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Japan. Moreover, we determined the sex-based differences in the spatial clustering of seropositive animals. Serum samples were obtained from a total of 1383 wild boars acquired by hunting in 41 prefectures in three fiscal years (April–March in 2014, 2015, and 2017). Seropositivity tests for ADV using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the latex agglutination and neutralization tests showed 29 boars seropositive for ADV (29/1383, 2.1% [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.4–3.0%]), with 28 of these boars originating from three prefectures in the Kii Peninsula (28/121, 23.1% [95% CI: 16.0–31.7%]). The degree of spatial clustering of these ADV-seropositive adult boars in the Kii Peninsula was evaluated using the K-function and data from sera samples of 46 (14 seropositive) male and 54 (12 seropositive) female boars. The degree of clustering among females was significantly higher in seropositive animals than in tested animals; however, such a difference was not observed for seropositive males. Conclusions: The spatial dynamics of ADV among adult wild boars may be characterized based on sex, and is likely due to sex-based differences in behavioral patterns including dispersal among wild boars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In recent years, wild boars' populations have been expanding both in rural and urban areas in Europe. Since these animals are placed in the interface of domestic and sylvatic cycle for zoonotic and animal-specific parasites, the aim of this study was to evaluate the serological prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis in wild boars hunted in an anthropized area in Italy. The results confirmed the possible risk of T. gondii infection for humans from consumption of meat and meat products from wild boars. Besides, their role as intermediate hosts for N. caninum is relevant due to the high presence of dairy cattle farms in the area. The usefulness of serological analysis to estimate S. scabiei infestation in wild boars is confirmed to evaluate the sanitary risk for livestock and humans in the area. In conclusion, the constitution of surveillance plans by standardized methods should be emphasized also to promote the awareness among hunters, wildlife professionals, and consumers on the circulation of parasites of this wild species with impact both on human and animal health. Due to the increasing expansion into urban and rural areas, wild boars represent a potential source of infection with zoonotic and animal-specific parasites for both humans and animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the serological prevalence to Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis in blood samples from wild boars (Sus scrofa) hunted in an anthropized area in Italy. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests were used to detect antibodies anti-T. gondii and anti-S. scabiei and an immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for antibodies anti-N. caninum. 81 out of 128 wild boars (P = 63.3%) resulted positive for at least one of the three parasites. 68 of them were seropositive to T. gondii (P = 53.1%) and 14 to N. caninum (P = 10.9%). 9 wild boars resulted seropositive to S. scabiei var. suis (P = 7.0%). Sampling season was the only significant risk factor related to S. scabiei var. suis seroprevalence (OR = 7.8). The high occurrence of T. gondii supports the role of this species as a source of infection for other animals and humans. Furthermore, the serological prevalence of N. caninum and S. scabiei var. suis in wild boars from the study area characterized by the presence of numerous dairy cattle and pig farms is relevant to demonstrate its suitability for the circulation of these parasites both in domestic and wild species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines animal burials in the Middle Bronze Age in the South Caucasus, particularly in Armenia. The authors analyze the burial of animals from a symbolic perspective and hypothesize about their role in human burial practices. It is noted that the burials are characterized by an exceptional quantity and diversity of animal remains. The authors attempt to reconstruct the significance and main aspects of animal burials. The study focuses on five major necropolises in the Armenian Highlands and emphasizes the presence or absence of different groups of animals in the graves. It is found that the burial of animals in the graves was a frequent and recurring practice. Both domesticated and wild animals were found in the graves, with sheep/goats and cattle being the most common animals. However, there is also a variety of wild animals in some graves. The study shows that there can be local peculiarities in ritual practices. No pigs were found in the examined graves in Lori Berd, while horses were present in all the examined sites. However, there is no exclusivity regarding the presence of horses, which are not associated with specific burial situations. Dogs were only found in the Great Kurgan of Karashamb, while they were systematically absent in all other burial contexts. The preservation of the zoological evidence regarding animal body parts is an important aspect, as usually only selected parts of the animals were buried. There is also a variety of wild animals, including foxes, martens, hares, and bears. Mollusk shells were also found and could indicate long-term contacts in protohistoric times. However, the presence of horses in the graves does not imply their widespread use or riding. There is no evidence of the use of horse harnesses or horseback fighting during this time. The iconography of animals during this period is also discussed to identify possible parallels with the archaeological findings. The Middle Bronze Age has provided some significant iconographic evidence for objects made of gold and silver, fine jewelry, and decorations on vases. These representations likely had diverse and complex symbolic meanings. It was found that the representations on exceptional objects such as the two silver cups found in the Great Kurgan of Karashamb and Kurgan V in Trialeti, Georgia, are particularly significant. Hunting wild boars likely had a ritual significance in MBA society. There are differences between the animals found as offerings in the graves and the iconographic representations on gold and silver artifacts. There are also differences between the animal depictions on ceramic vessels and the animal remains in the graves. The symbolic-ritual traditions of these protohistoric societies are complex and can only be partially reconstructed. The significance of hunting for these societies is emphasized, as the abundance and diversity of the animal world in some graves can be seen as an archaeological indication of outstanding and elite individuals. There is a clear proportionality between rich grave goods and abundant animal bones, as seen in the Great Kurgan of Karashamb. Hunting was therefore a sign of strength and power for the elite class of the 2nd millennium BC. [Extracted from the article]

This report presents the epidemiological analysis of African swine fever (ASF) during 2022 based on the surveillance and pig population data submitted by the European Union (EU) affected countries and one neighbouring country. Coinciding with regulatory changes and an important decrease in ASF outbreaks in 2022 in the EU, the number of domestic pig samples tested as part of active surveillance decreased by 80%, while the number of samples from passive surveillance almost doubled compared with 2021. Most outbreaks among domestic pigs in the EU were detected by testing clinical suspicions (93% of outbreaks), followed by tracing activities (5%) and weekly testing of the first two dead pigs per establishment (2%). Although most of the wild boar samples came from hunted animals, the probability of detecting PCR‐positive animals was much higher in wild boar found dead. The ASF outbreaks among domestic pigs in the EU decreased by 79% while a decrease of 40% in the wild boar cases was observed in comparison with 2021. This was strongly marked in Romania, Poland and Bulgaria, with a reduction of 50–80% compared with 2021. In many countries, an important decrease in the number of pig establishments was observed, especially of small establishments with fewer than 100 pigs. The regional between farm incidence and proportion of pigs lost due to ASF in the EU was in general very low (average of 1%) apart from some regions in Romania. The impact of ASF on wild boar populations was variable, with a decline in wild boar abundance observed in certain countries versus a stable or even increased population after ASF introduction. This supports the negative relationship observed in this report between the proportion of the country with restricted zones due to ASF in wild boar and wild boar hunting bags. This publication is linked to the following EFSA Supporting Publications article: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/sp.efsa.2023.EN-8029/full [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African swine fever (ASF) has been detected in many European countries since its introduction in Georgia in 2007. Serbia suffered its first case of ASF in the domestic pig population in 2019. At the beginning of 2020, ASF was detected in wild boars in open hunting grounds in the southeastern region of the country in districts along the country's borders with Romania and Bulgaria. Since then, all ASF outbreaks in wild boar were clustered in the population located in the same bordering areas. Despite the newly implemented biosecurity protocols for hunters in 2019, ASF was detected for the first time in June 2021 in the wild boar population located in an enclosed hunting ground in the northeast region of the country. In this study, we reported the first ASF outbreak in a wild boar population located in an enclosed hunting ground in close proximity to the Serbian–Romanian border. The epizootiological data on the field investigation of the ASF outbreak, with descriptions of the clinical signs and gross pathological lesions detected, including the total number as well as the estimated age, sex, and postmortem interval, were analyzed. Clinical signs were detected only in nine diseased wild boars, while in total, 149 carcasses were found in the open and enclosed part of the hunting ground. In addition, 99 carcasses from which samples (parts of spleen or long bones) were collected for molecular diagnostics (RT-PCR) were confirmed as ASF-positive. The results of the epidemiological investigations indicate the central role of wild boar movements as well as the constant risk of human-related activities in the countries bordering area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Rabies Virus-Neutralizing Antibodies in Free-Ranging Invasive Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Brazil" published in the journal Pathogens. The correction states that there was an error in the original publication, where it was mistakenly stated that two serum samples from wild boars in the municipality of Paraíso tested positive, instead of one. The correction also includes a revised figure that accurately represents the number of positive samples in Paraíso. The authors assure that this correction does not affect the scientific conclusions of the study. [Extracted from the article]

The wild boar is an abundant game species with high reproduction rates. The management of the wild boar population by hunting contributes to the meat supply and can help to avoid a spillover of transmissible animal diseases to domestic pigs, thus compromising food security. By the same token, wild boar can carry foodborne zoonotic pathogens, impacting food safety. We reviewed literature from 2012–2022 on biological hazards, which are considered in European Union legislation and in international standards on animal health. We identified 15 viral, 10 bacterial, and 5 parasitic agents and selected those nine bacteria that are zoonotic and can be transmitted to humans via food. The prevalence of Campylobacter, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, and Yersinia enterocolitica on muscle surfaces or in muscle tissues of wild boar varied from 0 to ca. 70%. One experimental study reported the transmission and survival of Mycobacterium on wild boar meat. Brucella, Coxiella burnetii, Listeria monocytogenes, and Mycobacteria have been isolated from the liver and spleen. For Brucella, studies stressed the occupational exposure risk, but no indication of meat-borne transmission was evident. Furthermore, the transmission of C. burnetii is most likely via vectors (i.e., ticks). In the absence of more detailed data for the European Union, it is advisable to focus on the efficacy of current game meat inspection and food safety management systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overabundant populations of wild boar (Sus scrofa) are frequent where anthropogenic food is easily available and where hunting is limited. Improving recreational hunting efficacy may contribute to manage these populations. However, we do not know the factors modulating hunting efficacy in a hunting day (i.e., proportion of individuals culled from a population). Additionally, we need to explore which factors drive hunting efficacy in shooting opportunities (i.e., proportion of hunted individuals from a wild boar group in individual shooting opportunities). Here, we analyze the factors explaining wild boar hunting efficacy at the scale of driven hunt and shooting opportunity. Hunting efficacy was surveyed in 92 driven hunts (2017–2018 to 2020–2021 hunting seasons) and in 145 shooting opportunities in Sierra de Gredos (central Spain). We found that hunting efficacy at the scale of the driven hunt was mainly modulated by the number of hunting posts. Indeed, maximum levels of 82 posts showed a fourfold hunting efficacy (59%) compared to minimum levels reaching six hunting posts (16%). At the scale of the shooting opportunity, hunting efficacy was mainly driven by wild boar group size, being negatively related to hunting efficacy: the higher the number of individuals in the group, the lower the shooting efficacy (13-fold; 41% for an individual, 3% for individuals belonging to groups > 7 individuals). Given the need of maintaining native wild boar populations at densities compatible with biodiversity conservation, rural economy, and animal and public health, efforts towards facilitating more hunters per event would improve wild boar hunting efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is considered "Near Threatened" globally and "Vulnerable" in the Middle East. In Israel, the species has experienced extreme population fluctuations owing to poisoning campaigns during the British Mandate (1918–1948) which were also further exacerbated by the Israeli authorities in the mid-twentieth century. We collated data from the archives of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority for the past 47 years to elucidate the temporal and geographic trends of this species. During this period we found a 68% increase in population and the estimated density is at present 2.1 individuals/100km2. This is significantly higher than all previous estimates for Israel. It appears that the major factors contributing to their phenomenal increase in number are the increase in prey availability because of the intensification of human development, preying on Bedouin livestock, the extinction of the leopard (Panthera pardus nimr), and the hunting of wild boars (Sus scorfa) and other agricultural pests in some parts of the country. Reasons should also be sought in increasing people's awareness as well as in advanced technological capabilities that have allowed an improved observation and reporting system. Future studies need to understand the effects of the large concentrations of striped hyenas on the spatial distribution and temporal activity of other sympatric wildlife to ensure the continued persistence of the wildlife guilds in the Israeli nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Recent findings of the nematode Eucoleus garfiai in wild boars across different countries, and more lately in southern Italy, have brought up the need for collecting epidemiological data on this parasite. In the present study, the prevalence of E. garfiai was analyzed in relation to altitude in different provinces of the Campania and Latium regions located, respectively, in southern and central Italy. Results showed that the parasite is more often found at altitudes higher than 900 m above sea level. Some species of earthworms are intermediate hosts of E. garfiai and it is well known that earthworms are more present in high quality soils, which are more likely found at high altitudes where anthropogenic interventions are less frequent. Therefore, we can suggest that the higher prevalence of E. garfiai above 900 m above sea level is probably linked to a higher presence of earthworms in the soil, due to its higher quality in these areas. Recent reports of Eucoleus garfiai in wild boars in southern Italy have highlighted the need for collecting epidemiological data on the presence of this parasite and understanding the role of possible interactions between wild boars, E. garfiai, and the environment. This study analyses, using histopathological and biomolecular techniques, the presence of E. garfiai in tongue samples of wild boars hunted in four provinces of the Campania and Latium regions (Italy), in areas located above and below 900 m above sea level (asl). Histopathological examinations revealed the presence of adults and eggs of nematodes, which were subsequently identified as E. garfiai by biomolecular analysis, in the tongue epithelium. The detection of the parasite was more frequent in samples collected from hunting areas located above 900 m asl than in those collected from areas located below 900 m asl (66.67% vs. 38.09%; p < 0.01). Some species of earthworms are intermediate hosts of E. garfiai and it is well known that earthworms are more present in high quality soils. Therefore, we can suggest that the higher prevalence of E. garfiai at higher altitudes is probably linked to a greater presence of earthworms in the soil, due to its higher quality in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 193 wild boars hunted in Tuscany, an Italian region with a high presence of wild ungulates, were examined to assess the occurrence of Campylobacter species in faeces, bile, liver and carcasses, with the aim of clarifying their contribution to human infection through the food chain. Campylobacter spp. were found in 44.56% of the animals, 42.62% of the faecal samples, 18.18% of the carcass samples, 4.81% of the liver tissues and 1.97% of the bile samples. The Campylobacter species genotypically identified were C. coli, C. lanienae, C. jejuni and C. hyointestinalis. The prevalent species transpired to be C. coli and C. lanienae, which were isolated from all the matrices; C. jejuni was present in faeces and liver, while C. hyointestinalis only in faeces. Identification was carried out by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) on 66 out of 100 isolates identified genotypically, and the technique yielded unsatisfactory results in the case of C. lanienae, which is responsible for sporadic human disease cases. The level of Campylobacter spp. contamination of meat and liver underlines the need to provide appropriate food safety information to hunters and consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: African swine fever (ASF) has caused significant damage to wildlife and domestic pig production. Since the first confirmed case in South Korea, the number of infected wild boars has continued to increase despite various management operations. Hence, this study developed the ASF expansion model based on an agent-based modeling approach to simulate management strategies for assessing the effective control of ASF. In our model, the agents' (wild boars) behavior and daily movement range based on their ecological and behavioral characteristics by applying annual hunting scenarios from the past three years (2019.09–2022.08). Our results represented that the higher the hunting intensity, the smaller the ASF expansion area (24,987 km2 at 0% annual hunting rate; 3533 km2 at 70%). Furthermore, the complete removal of agents during the simulation period was shown to be possible through the annual hunting rate above 70%. In conclusion, an annual hunting intensity of 70% is needed to control ASF effectively. African swine fever (ASF) is a viral hemorrhagic fever fatal to animals of the Suidae family. It has spread from Africa to Europe and Asia, causing significant damage to wildlife and domesticated pig production. Since the first confirmed case in South Korea in September 2019, the number of infected wild boars has continued to increase, despite quarantine fences and hunting operations. Hence, new strategies are needed for the effective control of ASF. We developed an agent-based model (ABM) to estimate the ASF expansion area and the efficacy of infection control strategies. In addition, we simulated the agents' (wild boars) behavior and daily movement range based on their ecological and behavioral characteristics, by applying annual hunting scenarios from past three years (2019.09–2022.08). The results of the simulation based on the annual changes in the number of infected agents and the ASF expansion area showed that the higher the hunting intensity, the smaller the expansion area (24,987 km2 at 0% vs. 3533 km2 at 70%); a hunting intensity exceeding 70% minimally affected the expansion area. A complete removal of agents during the simulation period was shown to be possible. In conclusion, an annual hunting intensity of 70% should be maintained to effectively control ASF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first case of African swine fever in domestic pigs in Serbia was in 2019. The following year, the disease was confirmed in wild boar. Thenceforth, ASF has been continuously reported in both wild and domestic pigs. The outbreaks in domestic pigs could not be linked directly to wild boars, even though wild boars were endemically infected, and reservoirs for ASF. This study aimed to investigate outbreaks and routes of transmission in domestic pigs in a region of central Serbia where no outbreaks in wild boar were reported. Fourteen outbreaks of ASF on backyard farms with low biosecurity were traced back, and no connection to wild boar was found. The epidemic investigation covered 2094 holdings, with 24,368 pigs, out of which 1882 were tested for ASF. In surrounding hunting grounds, field searches were conducted. Dead wild boars were found, and 138 hunted wild boars were negative for ASFV. It was concluded that outbreaks in 2021 were provoked by the illegal trade of live animals and pig products. Even though infective pressure from wild boars is assumed, no positive cases have been found, while the ASFV spreads within the domestic swine population evidenced in four recent outbreaks in 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]