Collared Peccary

Tayassu tajacu

Also known as the Javelina, the Collared Peccary lives in the Southwest where it feeds mainly on prickly pear cacti, grass, seeds, and nuts. It lives in small herds with an equal number of males and females. The Collared Peccary's social behavior is interesting to watch, but do not bother during the heat of the day -- high temperatures make these animals inactive.

Look For : A small pig with coarse bristly hair in a salt-and-pepper pattern.

Length : Body about 3' long, tail 1-2" long; 30-65 lb.

Habitat : Deserts with brushy areas and canyons.

Range : Southeastern Arizona to southwestern New Mexico; western and southern Texas; south to Argentina.