Wild boar are not native to Alberta and are declared pests when roaming free in Alberta. Wild boar are only considered livestock when properly contained. Producers require provincial and County oversight to own wild boar. 

How to identify wild boar

Wild boar have unique characteristics that differentiate them from their domestic counterparts: 

• Thick brown/black/greyish coat  
• Straight, long tail   
• Long, narrow head   
• Dark distal portions (legs, ears, snout, tail)  
• Ears stand straight up  

If you suspect you have seen a wild boar at large, report it, do not approach it and do not hunt it. Hunting is not an effective control method for wild boar, who quickly learn avoidance techniques that make them more difficult for authorities to trap. 

Report observations of wild boar at large

Wild boar at large are one of the most damaging and invasive species in North America. To find out more, visit the Alberta Invasive Species Council campaign.

If you suspect you have seen a wild boar, it is very important to report it using one of the following:

• Strathcona County
• EDDMapS
• Call 310-FARM
• Email: wildboar@gov.ab.ca 

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Farming wild boar in Strathcona County

Wild boar at large is a pest and invasive species. The

Responsible Livestock Ownership Bylaw

prohibits anyone from:

• Keeping wild boar in Strathcona County without a permit
• Starting a new wild boar farm 

Exceptions:

The Responsible Livestock Ownership Bylaw allows those farmers who were farming wild boar prior to October 4, 2022, to continue farming under specific circumstances. These include:

• Obtaining a Strathcona County Wild Boar Permit to own and farm wild boar
• Registering with the Alberta government
• Ensuring all containment standards are met

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