Collared peccary

Description:

The collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) is a species of mammal in the family Tayassuidae found in North, Central, and South America. They are commonly referred to as javelina, saíno or báquiro, although these terms are also used to describe other species in the family. The species is also known as the musk hog, Mexican hog. and javelina. In Trinidad, it is colloquially known as quenk. Although somewhat related to the pigs and frequently referred to as one, this species and the other peccaries are no longer classified in the pig family, Suidae. The collared peccary stands around 0.5 m (20-24 in) tall at the shoulder and about 1.0-1.5 m (40-60 in) long. It weighs between 16 and 27 kg (35 and 60 lbs). A peccary is a medium-sized animal, with a strong resemblance to pigs. Like pigs, it has a snout ending in a cartilagenous disc, and eyes that are small relative to its head. Also like pigs, it uses only the middle two digits for walking. Wild pigs or peccaries can display very aggressive behavior, and since they forage in packs, it’s advisable to climb up a tree when encountering them. Not all peccaries will attack, but their temperament is hot and unpredictable sometimes. Peccaries are omnivores, and will eat small animals, although their preferred foods consist of roots, grasses, seeds, fruit,[8] and cacti—particularly prickly pear.

Habitat:

They are found in all kinds of habitats, from arid scrublands to humid tropical rainforests. These ones were seen in La Selva Biological Station and appeared quite tame. They wandered among the humans and ate fallen fruit from the trees.