Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: The Javelina
Sep 15, 2021
Explore the fascinating world of javelinas, distinct from pigs, and uncover their surprising traits and social behaviors. Discover a viral video showcasing their incredible speed and learn about their unique classification as collared peccaries. The discussion highlights their defensive nature and corrects common misconceptions about their diets and habits. Dive into the evolution of even-toed ungulates, revealing intriguing anatomical features and behaviors that set javelinas apart from other species.
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Javelina vs. Pigs/Hogs
- Javelinas are not boars or hogs, despite looking similar.
- They are only distantly related to pigs, belonging to the peccary family.
Javelina Characteristics
- Javelinas are relatively small, about two feet tall and up to 55 pounds.
- Unlike pigs, they lack visible tails and prefer to live in herds.
Javelina Identification and Origin
- Javelinas have a scent gland used for identification and marking territory.
- Peccaries are native to the Americas, while pigs originated in Africa, Asia, and Europe.