WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (June 25, 2020) -- The soundscape of the swamp is often filled with the melody of songbirds, the courtship calls of frogs, and the ever-present sound of water.  In the quiet repose of Grassy Waters Preserve of West Palm Beach, one can easily encounter moments of peace and tranquility.  It is no surprise when the silence is broken with the sounds of grunts and growls, a figure moves like a phantom among the cypress trees.

Suddenly, from behind the Grassy Waters Preserve veil of ancient ferns, rotting snags and fallen logs steps an unexpected visitor, a Wild Boar.  

Wild boar or feral hogs are not native to Florida, but resident populations have existed here for hundreds of years.  The Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto is believed to have introduced them to Florida in 1539. 

Once domesticated livestock, their introduction and subsequent escape into Florida wetlands have left an indelible mark on the ecology of the Florida Everglades.  Pigs are inherently destructive as they root in the ground in search of food, they can expose the roots of trees leading to premature death, accelerate erosion, and damage landscaping in short order. The presence of wild hogs in Florida is a cautionary tale, reminding us of the unintended consequences of non-native species.  

Grassy Waters Preserve of West Palm Beach is located at 8264 Northlake Boulevard in the City of West Palm Beach. Grassy Waters Preserve serves as the surface water source for the City of West Palm Beach, which provides water to residents in the City, Town of Palm Beach, and Town of South Palm Beach.

For information on Grassy Waters Preserve programs available to the public under the COVID-19 safety guidelines, please call (561) 804-4895 (TTY: 800-955-8771) or visit: https://www.wpb.org/government/public-utilities/grassy-waters-preserve/public-program-calendar.