Loch Ness, famous for its mythical monster, now faces a real-life challenge: the return of wild boars. Once native to Scotland, these animals were hunted to extinction centuries ago. However, they have made a comeback, causing problems for local residents and farmers.

Damaged Lawns and Threatened Livestock
Peter Jamieson, a resident near Loch Ness, frequently wakes up to find his lawn torn apart, likely by boars. The damage is so severe that he must repair his grass multiple times a year. Similarly, local farmers have discovered their livestock, particularly lambs, have been preyed upon, leaving behind only carcasses.

Safety on the Roads
The return of boars has also raised safety concerns on roads. These animals can run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, leading to dangerous encounters with vehicles. One local shared how a friend’s car was totaled after colliding with a boar weighing over 130 pounds.

A Divided Community
While some residents are alarmed by the boars’ return, others view them as beneficial to the environment. Alex Davies, an estate manager, refers to them as “ecosystem engineers” that help promote biodiversity by turning over the soil. However, the Scottish government has yet to take significant action, leaving landowners to manage the problem on their own.

A Growing Problem
Despite efforts by some locals, including hiring hunters to control the boar population, the animals continue to spread across the region. As their numbers increase, so do the challenges faced by those living near Loch Ness.