THE Hawkesbury and Penrith have been called ‘hot zones’ for the keeping of feral pigs, which can carry serious diseases which affect both humans and stock.
They can carry swine brucellosis, bovine tuberculosis and leptospirosis. Greater Sydney Local Land Services biosecurity officer Lee Parker has issued a warning about the risk of buying stock online.
Mr Parker said more feral pigs were discovered at Rossmore earlier this month, after discoveries in the Hawkesbury, Londonderry and Penrith.
“The property owner had purchased the pigs online,” he said. “There is a very real risk these animals could attack you or escape and cause serious destruction to the environment. Offenders risk significant fines and penalties.” He said buyers should insist on a national vendor declaration. Contact 1300 795 299 for more.
