Fauna
Mammal

Collared Peccary

Dicotyles tajacu

Also known as Javelina, Musk Hog, Saino, Quenk

Collared peccaries are highly social, pig-like mammals that roam in cohesive herds of up to several dozen individuals, communicating through a complex system of vocalizations and scent marking. They possess a specialized scent gland on their lower back that releases a strong, musky odor used to identify group members and mark territory boundaries. These adaptable herbivores play a vital role in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds and turning over soil as they forage for roots and cacti.

SocialCrepuscularDesert-dwelling
Collared Peccary reference
Carlos Delgado / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyPrickly Pear Cactus, Roots and Tubers, Insects
Predators
  • Cougar
  • Jaguar
  • Coyote
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, hunting, and competition with invasive feral hogs.
HabitatsDeserts, scrublands, tropical rainforests, and oak woodlands.
Life span10 to 15 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyTayassuidae
  2. SpeciesDicotyles tajacu
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Can inflict severe bites with sharp tusks if cornered; keep dogs away and observe from a distance.
Responsible observation
  • Keep Distance: Avoid approaching herds, especially if young piglets are present.
  • Leash Dogs: Keep dogs on a leash, as peccaries view them as predators and will attack.
  • Scent Detection: Listen for low grunts and watch for a strong, musky odor indicating a nearby herd.
Related species
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