LIHUE, Kauai (KHON2) — A coordinated animal control operation in Kalalau Valley successfully removed feral animals.
On Sept. 9 and Sept. 10, ten pigs and 12 goats were removed from the impacted area by a team of permitted hunters and Department of Land and Natural Resources staff.
According to the state, Kalalau Valley has long struggled with populations of feral pigs and goats, which damage native plants, cause erosion and create public safety concerns for campers and hikers.
“This hunt shows what can be accomplished when community hunters and state staff work together,” said DSP administrator Curt Cottrell. “Feral animals remain a challenge in Kalalau, but cooperative efforts like this are making a difference.”
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With a total of 22 animals removed, hunters noted that the number of pigs present was lower than some recent reports suggested.