Javelinas, also known as collared peccaries, are medium-sized, pig-like mammals native to the Americas. They inhabit arid and semi-arid regions, including scrublands and deserts, from the southwestern United States through Central and South America. Javelinas are highly social creatures that live in herds, typically numbering 5 to 15 individuals, sometimes over 50. Herd members maintain close social bonds and communicate through scent marking and vocalizations.
Dimensions and Weight
Javelinas are built low to the ground, reflecting their compact and muscular body structure. An adult javelina stands between 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) tall at the shoulder. Their body length ranges from 32 to 48 inches (81 to 122 cm). Adult javelinas weigh between 35 to 60 pounds (16 to 27 kg). Individual size can vary based on factors like population and food availability, with some individuals reaching up to 80 pounds.
Distinctive Physical Traits
Javelinas are characterized by their coarse, bristly hair, which appears as a grizzled dark grey or black, with a salt-and-pepper appearance. A notable feature is the lighter-colored band of hair, white or yellowish, that encircles their neck and shoulders, giving them the “collared” part of their name. They possess a pig-like snout, small, rounded ears, and relatively short legs that support their stout body.
A unique aspect of their anatomy involves their canine teeth, known as “tusks.” Unlike the curved, outward-protruding tusks of wild boars, a javelina’s canines are straight and point downwards. These sharp, spear-like teeth are continuously sharpened as the upper and lower canines rub against each other, aiding in defense and tearing tough plant material. Javelinas also have a prominent scent gland located on their back, just above their short, unnoticeable tail. This gland secretes a musky odor used for territory marking and identifying other herd members.
Common Misconceptions and Comparisons
Despite their pig-like appearance, javelinas are not true pigs. They belong to a distinct family of mammals called Tayassuidae (peccaries), while true pigs are part of the Suidae family. This taxonomic difference means javelinas are New World animals, having evolved separately from Old World pigs. A primary distinction lies in their size; adult javelinas are considerably smaller than most wild pigs, with javelinas weighing around 55 pounds compared to mature feral hogs that can exceed 190 pounds.
Further differences are evident in their physical characteristics. Javelina tusks grow straight down, whereas a wild pig’s tusks curve outwards or upwards. Their feet also differ, as javelinas have three toes on their hind feet, while true pigs have four. Additionally, javelinas possess a short, barely visible tail, in contrast to the more distinct tails of pigs.