Effectiveness of methods for controlling wild boar movements

In Europe, wild boars serve as the primary reservoir for African Swine Fever (ASF), and this requires strategies to control disease transmission, including the separation of their populations. This report provides an update on current knowledge on the efficacy of fencing and other population separation methods for wild boar across diverse eco-epidemiological scenarios. This was carried out by: (i) systematic analysis of peer-reviewed scientific literature and field experiences obtained through questionnaires distributed to relevant professionals across Europe, to gather evidence on the effectiveness of fences (solid/mesh and electric), natural barriers, and other methods such as repellents/deterrents in managing wild boar movement and ASF transmission; (ii) defining the most important influential cases (scenarios) for the application of fences and/or other methods in managing wild boar populations, considering factors such as fence types, ASF epidemiology, and different spatiotemporal variables. Evaluation of the method effectiveness relies on both published and unpublished data, including responses to a questionnaire received by end-users and stakeholders across Europe. The findings reveal that while certain barriers can reduce wild boar movements, their effectiveness is influenced by numerous factors such as fence characteristics and landscape features. The most relevant influential factors, determining effectiveness of methods for separating wild boar populations, are recognized, listed and critically discussed. This will enable responsible authorities / decision makers to select the most feasible and cost-effective measure for each situation, considering both epidemiological, ecological, and social factors