COLCHESTER — Vermont Fish and Wildlife officials are worried about wild boar in the state.

The invasive exotic species is found in 38 states.

Vermont Public Radio reported that the department is concerned that the boar could escape captive hunting facilities in Vermont. The fear is that the boar would prey on birds that nest on the ground and endangered plants, as well as other animals on private property.

The department is asking the Legislature to ban possession and importation of the animals. Scott Darling, wildlife program director for the department, said the boars are very aggressive.