EN 
PT_BR 
The presence of wild boars and feral pigs in Brazilian agricultural regions is increasing concerns about potential damage to crops. soy at the start of the 2026/2027 harvest season. A survey released this year by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) indicates an increase in the presence of these animals in municipalities across all regions of the country, including locations not included in the previous edition, published in 2019.
The advance represents a risk to cultivated areas, especially during the initial stages of soybean development. In their search for food, wild boars and feral pigs disturb the soil, knock down plants, and damage sections of the crop, potentially compromising production even before the crop is established.
In addition to agricultural losses, the presence of these animals also generates sanitary concerns. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA), feral swine are considered in surveillance actions related to the health of swine herds, which increases the importance of monitoring their occurrence on rural properties.
According to the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), wild boars and feral pigs are predominantly nocturnal and use their snouts to dig in the ground in search of food. The main signs of their presence include footprints, droppings, fur, excavations, and damaged vegetation.
The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is an invasive exotic species in Brazil, while the wild boar-pig hybrid is the result of crossbreeding between wild boars and domestic pigs. Both have a diverse diet, which includes roots, fruits, seeds, grains, vegetables, and small animals. Their adaptability and herd behavior contribute to their presence in agricultural environments.
To reduce risks, identifying the routes used by animals is one of the measures recommended to producers. Areas near forests, waterways, and locations with available food require attention, as they can serve as corridors leading to the crops.
According to Bruno Nolasco, agribusiness manager at Belgo Arames, monitoring these points allows for the identification of the most vulnerable areas of the property and the targeting of protection measures.
“Locations near forests, waterways, or areas with food sources deserve special attention, as they serve as transit routes. Knowing these points and monitoring the traces helps the producer understand where the invaders arrive and which sections require greater protection,” Nolasco points out.
Fencing is also among the alternatives to make it more difficult for animals to access productive areas. The choice of structure should consider the characteristics of wild boars and feral pigs, as well as the specific conditions of each property.
One recommendation is to use fences with smaller openings closer to the ground, making it difficult for animals to pass under the fence. Maintaining existing structures and correcting potential entry points are also part of preventative care.
Among the available solutions is the Belgo Javaporco screen, developed by Belgo Arames. According to the manufacturer, the product has 11 horizontal wires and heavy galvanization, features designed to increase the strength and durability of the structure in protecting against medium and large animals.
According to Nolasco, the inspection of fences must be accompanied by continuous observation of the traces found on the properties, especially at the beginning of the harvest season.
“With the harvest already underway, reviewing the fencing and correcting potential access points are precautions that should be taken before problems reach the crop. The combination of adequate barriers and monitoring of traces found in the surrounding area helps to preserve the cultivated area and reduce risks to production,” he says.
