Native Range:
* Europe: Found throughout most of Europe, except for the northernmost and southernmost regions.
* Asia: Distributed across Asia, excluding some mountainous and arid regions.
* Africa: Found in parts of North Africa and the Mediterranean region.
Introduced Populations:
* North America: Introduced in the 1500s, wild pigs have established large, invasive populations in many parts of the US and Mexico.
* South America: Introduced populations exist in parts of South America, though their distribution is not as widespread as in North America.
* Australia: Introduced in the 19th century, wild pigs are now a significant agricultural pest and a threat to native ecosystems.
* Other regions: Introduced populations also exist in places like New Zealand, parts of the Caribbean, and even Hawaii.
Habitat Preferences:
Boars are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including:
* Forests: They prefer areas with dense undergrowth and abundant food sources.
* Woodlands: They can also be found in areas with more open woodlands and scattered trees.
* Swamps and marshes: Boars are adept at navigating wet and muddy areas.
* Agricultural fields: They often raid crops, especially in areas with human activity.
* Urban areas: In some regions, boars have even been spotted in suburban and urban areas, especially where food sources are readily available.
Key Factors:
* Food availability: Boars are omnivores and feed on a wide range of plants, roots, insects, and small animals.
* Water sources: Boars require access to water for drinking and mud wallowing.
* Shelter: They need access to dense vegetation or burrows for protection from predators and harsh weather.
It's important to note that boars can be invasive and harmful to ecosystems, especially in regions where they are not native. Their populations can explode, causing significant damage to crops, native wildlife, and habitats.