Reproductive and morphometric characteristics of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in the Czech Republic

Abstract

Our study aimed to determine morphometric data for wild boar (Sus scrofa) in various areas of the Czech Republic and the potential influence of environment on its body measurements. Three localities with varying agricultural systems and overall landscape structure were selected. Hunted boars were measured for height at the withers, body length, ear length, metatarsal length and weight (depending on the circumstances, either dressed with head, without head, or undressed). We also determined the age of the hunted boars according to teeth development. During 2003–2007, a total 654 boars were examined in various age categories. Body development was similar in all areas and without statistically significant differences until the age of 6–7 months. From 8 months, statistically significant differences in body proportions occur across all localities. It is just at that time that carrying capacities change in the selected localities. The results show that morphometric differences among boars of the same age are influenced by external environmental conditions in which the boars live.