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One invasive species that has a deep-rooted history in Florida is the wild hog. These feral descendants of domesticated pigs trace back to 1539, when Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto brought them to the region for sustenance during a treasure hunting expedition. Over centuries, wild hogs have proliferated, causing significant ecological, agricultural, and economic harm.
Their destructive rooting behavior disrupts native vegetation and leads to erosion, while their competition for resources further threatens local wildlife. Wild hogs can also be vectors for diseases impacting both animals and humans. Efforts to manage their populations through hunting and trapping are ongoing, but their adaptability poses considerable challenges.