Last week, former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal traveled to East Texas to participate in a nighttime feral hog hunt organized by the Texas_NightHunter crew. The outing took place on private land near the city of Paris, Texas, where O’Neal teamed up with East Texas native Matthew Prescott and other local hunters.
During the video posted to the crew’s social media, O’Neal says, “I smell pigs,” before firing his rifle and moving in to finish a hog that had been shot. The footage includes graphic content of the animal being killed, for which OutKick Outdoors issued a disclaimer that they do not condone discharging a firearm without looking.
Why feral hog control matters in Texas
Texas has the nation’s largest feral hog population, with millions of the invasive animals roaming the state. Texas A&M AgriLife reports that feral hogs cause more than $670 million in annual agricultural losses, while landowners spend an additional $130 million or more each year on control efforts and repairs.
These animals damage crops, pastures, fences, roads and waterways, degrade habitat for native wildlife, and can carry diseases that affect livestock, wildlife and humans. Their rapid reproduction and lack of natural predators make them especially difficult to manage. Researchers estimate that roughly two‑thirds of the population would need to be removed each year for several consecutive years to prevent growth.
Hunting regulations support control efforts
Texas law does not impose closed seasons or bag limits for feral hogs on private property, and a hunting license is not required when hunters have landowner authorization. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department even encourages nighttime hog hunting, noting that the animals become more nocturnal during hot summer months.
O’Neal’s participation is not his first outdoor venture. The four‑time NBA champion has long enjoyed hunting, ranging from waterfowl to wild boar and goats. He dedicated a chapter of his 2001 autobiography, “Shaq Talks Back,” to his hunting experiences, and in 2016 he joined survivalist Bear Grylls for an episode of “Running Wild,” where he trekked through the Adirondacks and spent a night in the wilderness.
Local impact and community response
Local landowners and hunters view the presence of a high‑profile guest like O’Neal as a boost to awareness of the ongoing feral hog problem. By helping to reduce the hog population, hunters provide a tangible service to the community, protecting agricultural productivity and preserving natural resources.
The Texas_NightHunter crew has previously taken other notable guests, including two‑time Super Bowl champion Torrey Smith, on similar outings, underscoring the growing interest among public figures in supporting responsible wildlife management.
For those interested in following the crew’s activities, OutKick Outdoors maintains an Instagram and TikTok presence where additional hunting footage and updates are shared.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
