Javelinas, unique desert animals found in the American Southwest, often raise questions about their interactions with humans. Understanding their behavior is important for residents and visitors in these regions. This article provides factual information on javelinas and how to respond during encounters.
Understanding Javelinas
Javelinas, also known as collared peccaries, are medium-sized hoofed mammals native to the Americas, distinct from true pigs which originated in the Old World. They stand 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 60 pounds, with some reaching 80 pounds. These animals live in social herds, often called squadrons or sounders, ranging from a few individuals to over 20.
Javelinas are primarily herbivores, with their diet consisting of various desert plants, including cactus pads and fruits, agave, roots, and seeds. They possess a keen sense of smell, which helps them locate food and identify herd members, but their eyesight is poor. Javelinas are most active during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late afternoon, and at night in warmer seasons.
Triggers for Javelina Aggression
Javelinas are not inherently aggressive towards humans but can exhibit defensive behaviors under specific circumstances. They often react defensively when cornered or threatened, as their poor eyesight can lead them to misinterpret human presence. They may appear to charge when they are actually attempting to escape.
They also become aggressive when protecting their young, known as “reds” for their reddish-brown fur. Mothers are highly protective, and approaching a herd with newborns can provoke a defensive reaction. Javelinas may also become defensive if they perceive dogs as predators like coyotes, often leading to attacks on pets.
Javelinas accustomed to human presence, especially those that have been fed, can lose their natural fear and aggressively seek out food. Bites are typically linked to people providing them with food. Injured or sick animals may also behave unpredictably. Defensive behaviors include teeth clacking, barking, growling, and charging.
Avoiding Javelina Encounters
Preventing aggressive encounters with javelinas involves minimizing attractants and respecting their space. Securing outdoor food sources is essential. This includes keeping trash cans with locking lids, avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, and promptly picking up fallen fruit or nuts from trees. Birdseed on the ground can also attract them.
Feeding javelinas is not recommended, as it causes them to lose their natural fear of humans and can lead to aggressive begging. When walking pets, particularly dogs, in areas where javelinas are present, keeping them on a leash is important. If javelinas are spotted, altering your path to avoid approaching them directly is advisable. Maintaining a safe distance from javelina herds prevents them from feeling threatened.
Being aware of your surroundings, especially during dawn and dusk when javelinas are most active, can help in spotting them early. If you live near desert washes or natural desert areas, occasional javelina visits are likely. Consider using fencing around gardens, such as a solid four-foot tall fence or a low-voltage electric fence.
What to Do During an Encounter
If you find yourself in an encounter with a javelina, remaining calm and avoiding sudden movements is important. Do not run, as this can trigger a chase response from the animal. Instead, make yourself appear larger by raising your arms and make loud noises, such as yelling, clapping, or stomping your feet. Throwing small objects like rocks in their direction can also help deter them.
Slowly back away from the javelina or herd, maintaining eye contact without staring aggressively. If a javelina charges, picking up small dogs quickly is advised. If an attack occurs, fighting back by kicking or using available objects is recommended as a last resort.
If javelinas cause property damage or exhibit repeated aggression, reporting them to local wildlife authorities, such as the Arizona Game and Fish Department, may be necessary. They can provide further guidance or intervene if needed.