Arrests after wild boars let loose in Maesteg farm burglary

[Neil]

Six people have been arrested after wild boars were released during a burglary at a farm in Bridgend county.

About 21 of the animals could be roaming the area after they were released from their pen following a break-in in Ewenny Road, Maesteg, at 12:30 BST on Sunday.

Police said the farmer holds a dangerous animals licence and had the necessary fencing to prevent escapes.

Anyone who sees the boars is advised not approach them, but to call 101.

South Wales Police said although the animals are not an immediate threat to the public, they may charge anyone who tries to approach them as they will be disorientated and are not used to being out of their pens.

Wild boars are usually nocturnal and can travel up to 30 miles a day searching for food in the early morning or late afternoon and evening.

Inspector Paul Thomas said: "These animals are recognised as posing a potential threat. People should take as much care as possible.

"We are investigating the criminal damage and the release of dangerous wild animals, which can carry a sentence in prison."

 
Naturalist and broadcaster Iolo Williams, the patron of the Wild Boar Trust said he has tracked wild boar in the Forest of Dean.

"They're fantastic animals, fascinating things. It's important I think that we remember they are a native animal. The Welsh princes used to hunt them so they're part of our heritage really," Mr Williams told BBC Radio Wales.

All you have to do is just open the door and off they go immediately. They do not want that contact with people”
End Quote
Iolo Williams He said people in and around Maesteg have nothing to worry about with the released boars on the loose.

"They have a bad reputation and I don't understand why," said Mr Williams. "They are very secretive, they are very shy and probably the first thing they'll do is they'll head for woodland cover.

"There's quite a bit of woodland up above and at the back of Maesteg there - forestry plantation and I'm pretty sure that's where people will find most of them."

He added: "They're fascinating animals and an important part of the woodland ecology as well. They turf up the woodland floor which helps new plants and flowers grow, which helps insects which helps birds."

Asked whether the wild boar can be a problem if they turn up in a garden, Mr Williams added: "All you have to do is just open the door and off they go immediately. They do not want that contact with people."

[Napoleon]

   terrine hummmm

[Neil]

I thought this may appeal to you mon ami.

[geordiefred]

" there could be a few less if any stray too close to Naps place " 

[Napoleon]

   going to Maesteg later on for a walk  with my FAMAS

[troutmasterfunk]

Napoleon's hog roasts...??

[Dryland]

Nap for Gods sake put that rifle away, I can see it from here