The javelina, or Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu), is a pig-like mammal native to the Americas. Despite its resemblance to a wild pig, the javelina belongs to the separate family Tayassuidae, distinct from the true pigs (Suidae family). The Collared Peccary does not maintain an established, native population within California.
Current Distribution Status in California
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) does not list the javelina as an established wildlife species within the state. The absence of a breeding population means the javelina is not considered part of California’s native fauna. Any sightings reported are extremely rare and typically involve transient individuals.
These sporadic occurrences are generally confined to the extreme southeastern desert regions, such as Imperial or Riverside counties near the Arizona border. Javelinas occasionally cross the state line from neighboring Arizona, where they have an abundant population. These animals are considered vagrants and do not represent a stable, self-sustaining group within the state.
The Native Range of the Collared Peccary
The javelina has an extensive natural distribution, beginning in the southern United States and stretching south through Central America to northern Argentina. In the U.S., their established range is limited to the arid and semi-arid regions of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. This habitat preference is a primary reason the species has not expanded naturally into California.
Javelinas thrive in desert scrub, chaparral, and brushy country, often relying on vegetation like the prickly pear cactus for food and hydration. The population distribution stops at the California border because the state’s environment does not seamlessly continue the required habitat conditions. The lack of continuous suitable forage and cover acts as a natural barrier limiting permanent settlement.
Javelina Versus Feral Pig: Understanding the Difference
The confusion over javelinas in California often stems from misidentifying the highly abundant feral pig (Sus scrofa), which is a true pig. Javelinas are significantly smaller, typically weighing between 35 and 55 pounds, while feral hogs can easily exceed 200 to 400 pounds. Javelinas are native to the New World, whereas feral pigs are descendants of Old World domestic swine introduced by European settlers.
Javelinas possess a unique, straight-downward pointing tusk structure, unlike the curved tusks of true pigs. Their bodies are covered in grizzled, coarse hair, marked by a distinguishing band of lighter hair around the neck, giving them the alternative name of Collared Peccary. A javelina’s hind feet have only three functional toes, compared to the four functional toes found on all species of swine.
A prominent scent gland is located on the javelina’s back, near the rump, which they use to mark territory and recognize herd members. Feral pigs lack this distinct musk gland. The presence of feral pigs in nearly every county of California means that almost all reported sightings of a “wild pig” are of the much larger, non-native Sus scrofa.