A boar, known scientifically as Sus scrofa, is a wild pig found across much of Eurasia and North Africa. It has been introduced globally, making it one of the most widespread mammals. Boars are recognized for their robust build and formidable presence in their natural habitats. They represent the wild ancestors of most domestic pig breeds.
General Appearance and Body Structure
Wild boars have a bulky, muscular body. They typically stand between 76 to 91 cm (2.5 to 3 feet) at the shoulder. Adult boars can range significantly in weight, from about 66 kg (145 lbs) up to 272 kg (599 lbs), with some exceptional males exceeding this range. Males generally exhibit larger sizes, being 5-10% larger and 20-30% heavier than females.
The wild boar has relatively short and thin legs supporting its robust trunk, while its hindquarters appear comparatively less developed. A distinctive feature of its body structure is the short, thick neck, which is nearly immobile. This powerful neck, combined with a large head, is well-adapted for digging and rooting in the ground.
A boar’s coat consists of a double layer: long, coarse, bristly guard hairs over a softer, brown downy undercoat. The coloration varies widely, including dark brown, black, grizzled, or reddish-brown, often depending on geographic location. Piglets display a distinct pattern of light brown or rusty-brown fur with pale longitudinal stripes, which typically fade after three to four months.
Key Distinguishing Features and Variations
The head of a wild boar is notably large. Its prominent, elongated snout is equipped with a cartilaginous disk supported by a small prenasal bone, which allows the boar to use it like a bulldozer for foraging. This adaptation enables them to upturn considerable amounts of soil when searching for food.
A defining characteristic, especially in males, is the presence of well-developed canine teeth, commonly known as tusks. These tusks grow continuously throughout the boar’s life. Males typically have significantly larger and longer tusks than females, with lower tusks capable of reaching lengths of 10-12 cm (3.9-4.7 inches) or even up to 30 cm (12 inches) in exceptional cases. The upper tusks, called “whetters,” sharpen the lower tusks, known as “cutters,” maintaining their razor-sharp edges.
Wild boars have small, deep-set eyes, contributing to their comparatively weak eyesight. Their ears are broad, triangular, and often heavily haired. Along their back, particularly in males, a mane of bristly hair runs down the spine, which can stand erect when the animal is agitated. These physical attributes differentiate them from domestic pigs, which generally have less coarse hair, shorter snouts, and significantly smaller or absent tusks due to selective breeding. Domestic pigs also tend to concentrate more body weight in their hindquarters, unlike wild boars whose muscle mass is concentrated in the head and shoulders.