WILD PIG IN AUSTRALIA. By Philip Holden.

1994 1st edition. 4to paperback (180 x 250mm). Ppvi,136. Colour photographs throughout.

In this important and interesting book, Philip Holden looks at the history of the feral pig in Australia, its effects on local ecology and its management and control. He begins with an examination of the various pig species involved, and looks at pig releases in other parts of the world, with something of how those populations developed. Holden applies this material to his examination of feral pigs in Australia, where they came from, the problems they cause and what is being done to control them. Includes many accounts of the author's first-hand investigations in the bush. Chapters include; Part 1, a most adaptable animal - profile of a species; in the wild; Captain Cookers?; and so, Australia; Part 2, in tropic regions - crop raiders; the pig and the cassowary; in crocodile habitat; an island situation; Cape York Peninsula, stronghold of the wild pig; the Asian link; observations afield; in Arnhem Land; Part 3, in wild pig country - plains country; the commercial aspect; drastic measures; marshlands; border country; back o' Bourke; game as they come; south with the Paroo. Appendices include; a hunter's basic field care for the preparation and delivery of feral pigs for export meat; recognised subspecies of Sus scrofa and where they are found; close relatives of Sus scrofa; address list - locations of professional hunting guides and stations offering pig hunting; trophy hunting; current legislation and pest management; the Vertebrate Pests Committee; taxidermists.