Friend or Foe?
Boars and Dogs
One is indigenous to Hong Kong, while the other was brought to Hong Kong so long ago that it’s become part of the landscape.
The wild boar, indigenous to this region, may be considered a “dangerous agricultural pest” but – it is part of the ecology of Hong Kong and, as such, does it not deserve to be left in peace? Yes, they can be a nuisance; they defend their young and use all of their resources to find food. But – can we not live side by side, recognizing that animals (whether protected or not) have rights too.
Is it too much to ask that farmers and gardeners put up appropriate deterrents (such as an electric fence) rather than call the hunters in as a first resort. In certain cases it may be necessary to deploy those teams but it must a true “threat to life” to warrant hunting the boar.
Dogs, on the other hand, have been friend, food, and worker for Hong Kong residents over a long period of time, the relationship varying according to culture and need. As times are changing, we see new issues cropping up with what many of us consider is “man’s best friend”. For some the dog is a guard and required to be treated as such; while for others the dog is coddled to the point where its feet never touch the ground.
Sai Kung is becoming known as a haven for dog lovers but dogs treated as a member of the family and dogs on guard don’t mix. There are also different viewpoints on the level of responsibility that one has for one’s dog. Many village dogs are allowed to roam free, creating the illusion that the problem is related to feral dogs. However they are not feral, they do have owners who are not keeping them under appropriate control.
Overpopulation is becoming a real problem and now is the time to encourage a change in attitude. In the past, neutering wouldn’t have been considered; however, it may now be a necessity.
Check out the whole story about Sai Kung's WILD BOARS and DOGS. We’ll be adding your stories to the website – so give us the scoop by sending an email to animals@exploresaikung.com
Then it's your turn..... We’ll be adding your stories to the website – so give us the scoop by sending an email to animals@exploresaikung.com and/or Have your say... on the Explore Discussion Forum.