Javelinas, also known as collared peccaries, are highly social, medium-sized mammals native to the American Southwest, Central America, and South America. They are often mistaken for wild pigs due to their bristly coats and snout-like noses, but they are a distinct species. Javelinas are easily recognizable by the ring of lighter-colored hair, or “collar,” around their neck and shoulders, which gives them their common name. They rely on a deeply ingrained social structure for survival and are nearly always encountered in a group.
The Specific Term for a Javelina Group
The collective noun used for a group of javelinas is a squadron. While “herd” is commonly used in informal settings, “squadron” is the more precise name for a group of peccaries.
The squadron is a stable, year-round social unit, essential for the animals’ day-to-day life. These groups are typically composed of related females and their young, along with one or more males. Group size usually consists of six to 15 individuals, though much larger groups have occasionally been recorded.
Javelinas Are Not True Pigs
A common misconception is that the javelina is a type of wild pig or hog, but this is taxonomically incorrect. Javelinas belong to the family Tayassuidae (peccaries), which is distinct from the Suidae family (true pigs and hogs). These two families diverged millions of years ago, and peccaries are considered “New World” animals.
Physical differences separate the javelina from true pigs, starting with their dental structure. A javelina’s tusks are straight and point downward, unlike a true pig’s tusks which curve outward and upward. Javelinas also have only three functional toes on their hind feet, missing the outer dewclaw found on pigs, and possess a small, unnoticeable tail. True pigs have a more complex stomach and fewer teeth than peccaries, which are foregut fermenters.
A distinguishing feature is the prominent scent gland located near the base of the javelina’s rump. This gland emits a musky odor used for marking territory and identifying other squadron members. Members of the group often rub their scent glands against each other, which helps to blend their individual odors into a cohesive group scent.
Social Behavior and Group Function
The strong social bond within the squadron is a survival strategy for javelinas. The primary function of group living is defense, as more individuals can detect predators like mountain lions and coyotes. When threatened, the squadron forms a defensive front, using their sharp tusks and loud teeth-clacking sounds to deter an attacker.
Group cohesion also aids in locating and acquiring food, which is often scattered in their arid environments. They cooperatively forage for resources like prickly pear cactus, roots, and tubers, relying on their keen sense of smell to locate food underground. The squadron also plays a role in thermal regulation, as javelinas huddle closely to conserve body heat or seek communal shade.
The squadron structure includes a loose dominance hierarchy, often with a dominant male and female. All members contribute to the communal care of the young, known as “reds” due to their reddish coats. Stability is maintained through constant vocalizations, body language, and the frequent exchange of scent markings.