An aggressive aerial hog control effort at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge resulted in the removal of 445 feral hogs during the first week of February, according to refuge officials.

The operation took place over three days in the Sandtown Bottom Unit of the refuge near Vian. Refuge staff utilized aerial methods to target the invasive animals, which are known to cause extensive environmental damage to wetlands, crops and native wildlife habitats.

Officials had previously announced plans for the weather-dependent operation, noting that the Sandtown Bottom Unit would close at around 8:30 a.m. on the scheduled day to accommodate the flight crew.

The refuge indicated that the crew would assess weather conditions the morning of the operation before making a final determination.

Visitors were advised to plan for the temporary closure, and refuge staff apologized for any inconvenience.

Feral hogs are considered a significant threat to natural ecosystems due to their rooting and wallowing behavior, which can destroy vegetation, increase erosion and degrade water quality.

Wildlife managers often rely on aerial control efforts as one of the most effective methods for reducing large populations in hard-to-access areas.

Refuge officials did not indicate when the next control operation may take place but said updates would be shared as additional management efforts are planned.