100 Swansea 'micro pigs' culled for public safety

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http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-sout ... s-29184035

100 Swansea 'micro pigs' culled for public safety

More than 100 so-called 'micro pigs' living in the wild have been shot in a cull by Swansea council.

It is understood that the pigs, which have been made popular by celebrities as pets, were living on the 'Welsh Moor' area of common land in Gower.

The animals appear to have escaped from captivity and may have cross-bred with other species of farm pig.

Local farmers and parents raised concerns about the danger they posed to children and livestock.

A council official said they had tried to find the original owners but nobody was prepared to take responsibility for the pigs, which may number as many as 300 animals.

"These animals presented a serious risk to other livestock in the region in the event of a disease outbreak, and because of this we were left with no option but to carry out a cull," said a spokesperson.

"This was carried out by a licensed professional and with full support of local farmers in the area.

"We also liaised with animal welfare officers in the Welsh government to keep them informed of our actions."

Micro pigs have become popular pets recently, with famous owners including Victoria Beckham, Paris Hilton and Olympic diver, Tom Daley.

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