More evidence is needed before the return of boar to Dartmoor can be assessed as a positive or negative thing, Larsen-Daw added: “The fate of the wild boar on Dartmoor should not be a kneejerk response based on a black and white view of wild boar being good or bad in the modern UK landscape.
A spokesperson said people should keep dogs on leads on their reserves: “We are aware of reports of boar on Dartmoor national park and will be working with the Dartmoor national park authority and others over the coming weeks to understand more about any local population.
Some education and sensitisation of visitors to an area with wild boar can ensure that conflict is avoided, and for some wildlife lovers the prospect of seeing wild boar or signs of their presence could enhance their enjoyment of a visit.”.
He said anyone who had released the boar was a “bloody moron”, adding “I dread to think what would happen if a child were to come face to face with a boar on a path.
Matt Larsen-Daw, the CEO of the Mammal Society, said: “There is a possibility that the boar captured on video earlier in February, and the individual animal blamed for a recent attack on a dog, are present due to a more recent illegal release of animals in the landscape.
