After 224 years, Australia finally eradicates pigs from Kangaroo Island
Australia has successfully eradicated feral pigs from Kangaroo Island after a 224-year effort, marking a significant conservation milestone. The project utilized post-fire conditions and high-tech tracking to protect local biodiversity.
Why it matters
Demonstrates the effectiveness of long-term conservation strategies and the potential for ecological restoration on islands.
In 1802, a French explorer released pigs on Kangaroo Island as a food supply for passing sailors; 224 years later, Australia has officially removed the last of them.Kangaroo Island has been declared completely free of feral pigs, making it the largest island anywhere in the world to clear out an established population of the pest.The landmark news was shared in a joint announcement on 10 June 2026 by Murray Watt, Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, and Clare Scriven, South Australian Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development.Backed by 7.5 million Australian dollars from federal and state governments alongside South Australia’s livestock industry, the Kangaroo Island Feral Pig Eradication Program gives crucial protection to native animals and local farms.
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