Warsaw faces rising wild boar population and safety risks

The wild boar population in Warsaw is experiencing a significant surge, moving from a once-rare occurrence in city centers to a daily reality for residents. In 2025, the population was estimated at approximately 3,031 animals, with reports of their presence increasing more than twentyfold compared to 2020 levels.

This expansion into densely populated areas like Praga-Południe and Śródmieście has led to rising safety concerns. Statistics indicate a sharp increase in dangerous encounters; while 59 attacks on humans were recorded in 2024, that number rose to 121 in 2025. Additionally, the city has dealt with hundreds of road collisions and numerous attacks on pets.

Authorities face legal constraints in managing the population. Due to European Union regulations regarding African Swine Fever (ASF), officials are restricted from capturing and transporting boars to other regions. Current laws limit management options to culling or live capture with immobilization, preventing more flexible relocation strategies.