Note: A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokeswoman told the Observer after publication that wild hogs are not protected in the state. Although the FWC does not provide removal services for wild hogs, they may be trapped and hunted year-round on private property without a hunting license, if the landowner gives permission. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services regulates the transportation and holding of live wild hogs, including the distribution of permits to those who transport and hold wild hogs.
An animal problem that is running wild is rearing its ugly head in Lakewood Ranch.
Wild pigs have become an increasingly common site on Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, along Lake Uihlein and within Lakewood Ranch communities. Government agencies can’t seem to agree on who should take care of the problem, leaving Lakewood Ranch Town Hall and individual communities to manage the issue as best they can.