Collard Peccary

 

(Pecari Tajacu)

Spanish: Javelina. Qeuqueo.

 

Collared peccaries are the smaller and more common of the two species of peccary native to Belize, and are also known as “Javelina.” Although they resemble pigs, they are distant relatives in their own Order of hooved, even-toed mammals. They are distinguished from White-lipped peccaries by their smaller size, shorter hair, and by a yellowish band that runs from the javelina’s shoulders down to their necks; giving the illusion of a collar. 

As highly social animals, collared peccaries can gather in herds of up to 50 individuals. Herds consist of both male and female but are led by a dominant male peccary. Collared peccaries display very territorial behaviour. They mark their home ranges with special scent glands, found on their rump. Scent marking occurs by rubbing the hind part on the ground or tree bark. This form of communication allows group members to identify each other. 

They are important prey for jaguars and pumas.

Fun Facts

• Peccaries have a strong sense of smell. With their snouts, they can sniff out bulbs, roots and tubers hidden up to 8” below ground
• Javelinas can run up to 35 miles an hour. They are also very good swimmers
• The word “javelina” means “javelin” or “sword” in Spanish.This refers to the peccarry’s sharp tusks
• New born peccaries can run after their mother within 2 hours after birth!