Exploring the Wild Side of Collared Peccaries

As a nature photographer, I often lead tours focused on capturing images of specific wildlife species, whether it’s birds like snow geese and sandhill cranes in New Mexico or other remarkable creatures. While iconic or abundant species often draw attention, it’s usually the lesser-known or rarer animals that pique my interest.

During one such tour, I was scanning the area for something unique to photograph when I spotted movement on the right side of a gravel road. It wasn’t just a single animal; there seemed to be several moving in a line. Knowing the wildlife of the area, I quickly realized the only likely candidate for multiple large mammals moving in formation was a group of javelinas (pronounced “ha-vuh-LEE-nuh”), also known as collared peccaries.

If you’re unfamiliar with javelinas, don’t feel bad. These pig-like animals are native to Central and South America, as well as parts of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Despite their resemblance to pigs, javelinas are not closely related to farm pigs. They are smaller, typically growing to 3 to 4 feet long and weighing between 50 and 90 pounds, far less than the 500 to 600 pounds of a typical farm pig. Their ears are small and round, unlike the floppy ears of pigs, and they have short, almost invisible tails.

Javelinas belong to a different class of mammals altogether, with a three-chambered stomach designed for fermentation, unlike pigs, which are hindgut fermenters. They are social creatures, usually found in groups known as squadrons, and they are omnivores, feeding on insects, fruits, roots, grasses, and even prickly pear cacti. They are known to scavenge or hunt small mammals as well.

When I spotted the javelinas, I knew we needed to approach quietly to avoid startling them. Luckily, the animals were facing away from us, and we managed to get close without alerting them. After crossing the road, they disappeared into the brush. We were disappointed that we hadn’t captured any photos, but I signaled to my group to stay quiet and wait.

Sure enough, a few minutes later, one of the adult javelinas reappeared from the brush and paused, giving us the perfect opportunity for some incredible shots. The moment lasted only a minute before they vanished again.

Afterward, I took the time to explain to my group the unique characteristics of javelinas compared to farm pigs. It was a fantastic experience, reminding me that nature often has surprises waiting for those who are patient and observant. Until next time!

Editor’s note: Stan Tekiela’s NatureSmart column appears twice a month in the Eden Prairie Local News. Stan Tekiela is a wildlife photographer, author, and naturalist who travels the U.S. to study and photograph wildlife.

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