5 Interesting Facts About javelina You Might Not Know!

Growing up, we would always tie our dumpsters to a tree. When we didn't, Javelina would come by and demolish whatever was in there. Most people in southern Arizona don't think twice about seeing one, but they are much more interesting than they initially appear. Here are 5 facts about Javelina you might not know!

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A javelina walks through dry, grassy vegetation.

1.) They aren't pigs

Despite what it seems, Javelina are not pigs. Javelina belong to the peccary family, a totally different branch of hoofed mammals. They split from true pigs roughly 40+ million years ago, making them more of a pig's distant cousin than a pig itself.

A wild peccary stands in lush green grass.

2.) Scent‑gland communication

Javelina have a large musk gland on their rump that they rub on rocks, trees, and each other. It’s how they mark territory, identify herd members, and avoid fights. If you smell a weird skunk-like odor in the desert or your driveway, that’s them.

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A peccary stands near a stone wall and green plants.

3.) A group is called a squadron

Javelina travel in tight social groups called squadrons, usually 8–20 animals. They defend each other fiercely, and if they are in danger, they will circle and protect injured members.

Michele Tantussi, Getty Images

4.) Native American Symbolism

Javelina have been a symbol for many native tribes for centuries. In several Southwest Indigenous traditions, javelina represent unity and protection, admired for their herd loyalty and ability to survive the desert through collective strength. It was also believed they possess a strong spiritual energy.

READ: Why Cutting Down A Saguaro In Arizona Can Lead To A Felony Charge

A wild peccary with mouth open near a tree.

5.) Cactus Connoisseurs

Javelina can munch straight through spiny cacti thanks to their tough mouths, occasional tusks, and specialized digestive systems. The cactus provides water, so as long as they are eating, they can go long stretches without finding a drink.

a wild boar standing in a rocky area

Javelina are extremely common in southern Arizona, and I know I have seen them more times than I can count. They weigh between 35-60 pounds on average, and are a lot meaner than you would expect. In southern Arizona, Javelina feel more like a neighbor than a wild animal.

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