District’s Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve closed for feral hog hunts

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Posted January 21, 2022 | By Ocala Gazette Staff

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (District) Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve in Marion County will be temporarily closed to the public for feral hog hunts to be conducted on Jan. 25 through Jan. 27.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the property during these dates, according to the District press release. All 25 permits for these hunts have been sold.

This activity is one of a series of feral hog hunts being held on District lands to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

Feral hogs live throughout Florida in various habitats, but prefer moist forests and swamps, as well as pine flatwoods. They are omnivorous and feed by rooting with their broad snouts, which can cause extensive damage to the area.

Feral hogs are not native to Florida. Historians believe explorer Hernando DeSoto first introduced them as early as 1539. They can weigh more than 300 pounds and travel in herds of several females and their offspring.

Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve is located at 15430 S.W. HWY 484 in Dunnellon. For more information, please call the District’s Land Management section at 1 (800) 423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.