Which animal is considered a non-native invasive species in South Carolina parks?

The feral hog is categorized as a non-native invasive species in South Carolina parks due to its significant ecological impact. Originally domesticated for agricultural purposes, feral hogs have escaped and established populations in the wild. They are highly adaptive animals that can thrive in a variety of environments, which allows them to spread rapidly across different habitats.

Feral hogs compete with native wildlife for food and resources, disrupting local ecosystems. Their foraging behavior can lead to overgrazing and soil erosion, negatively affecting plant communities and the habitats of other species. Efforts to manage feral hog populations are essential to minimize their detrimental effects on South Carolina's natural resources and preserve biodiversity within the state's parks.

In contrast, other animals like deer, raccoons, and coyotes, while they may have their own impacts, are generally considered native species within the region and are a part of the local ecological balance. Consequently, they do not fit the criteria of being non-native invasive species like the feral hog does.