If you ever find yourself being chased by a wild boar, the first and most important rule is to stay calm. According to the Facebook page Public Health Malaysia, panicking or screaming can escalate the situation, as loud noises may provoke the animal further.
When fleeing, avoid running in a straight line. Wild boars are large and heavy, making sharp turns difficult at high speeds. Instead, experts recommend running in a zigzag pattern to make it harder for the boar to catch you.
Other survival strategies include climbing a sturdy tree, standing on a car hood, or seeking out steep terrain that the boar cannot easily navigate.
Public Health Malaysia also suggests using your backpack as a shield. Either hold it in front of you or drop it in the path of the boar so that its sharp tusks hit the backpack instead of critical areas like your abdomen or thighs.
If you happen to fall while running, immediately roll to protect your neck, stomach, and other vital parts, and get back up as quickly as possible to continue escaping. Avoid lying on the ground for too long, as the boar may mistake you for vulnerable prey and attack again.
Most wild boar attacks occur because the animal is startled or protecting its young. Even a small piglet in the forest can signal that a mother boar is nearby. Female wild boars are highly protective, and their aggression can be ten times stronger than males, so it’s crucial to keep your distance at all times.
