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Science & Nature • Mammal

Javelina

The javelina is the common name for the collared peccary, a hoofed mammal native to the Americas.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The javelina is the common name for the collared peccary, a hoofed mammal native to the Americas. It is not a true pig, although it resembles one, and it is found from the southwestern United States through Mexico and into South America.

Taxonomy and naming

The javelina is the collared peccary, scientifically known as Pecari tajacu. It belongs to the peccary family, a group of even-toed ungulates distinct from true pigs.

Distribution and habitat

Javelinas range from the southwestern United States through Mexico and Central America to Argentina. They live in desert washes, grasslands, woodlands, and brushy habitats.

Diet and behaviour

Javelinas are mostly herbivores but may also eat small animals or carrion when available. They are social, often travel in groups, and are active mainly at night or in cooler conditions.

Physical characteristics

Javelinas are medium-sized mammals with coarse hair, a light neck collar, a wedge-shaped head, and a short tail. They have tusk-like canine teeth that can be used for defence and feeding.

Key facts

  • Javelinas are collared peccaries, not true pigs, despite their pig-like appearance.
  • They are native to the Americas and occur in the southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America.
  • Their diet is mainly plant-based, including cactus pads, fruits, roots, grasses, and other vegetation.
  • They are social animals and commonly live in groups called herds or squads.
  • Javelinas are listed as least concern and are not considered threatened or endangered.
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Canadian context

Javelinas do not have a native Canadian range, but they are relevant to Canadian readers through North American wildlife, conservation, and travel or wildlife-encounter awareness in the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Frequently asked questions

Is a javelina a pig?
No. A javelina is a collared peccary, a different but related hoofed mammal, not a true pig.
Where do javelinas live?
They live from the southwestern United States through Mexico and into South America, especially in desert and brush habitats.
What do javelinas eat?
They mainly eat plant material such as cactus pads, fruits, roots, grasses, and seeds, but may sometimes eat small animals or carrion.
Are javelinas endangered?
No. They are listed as least concern and are not considered threatened or endangered.
What is the scientific name of a javelina?
The scientific name is Pecari tajacu.
Why are they called javelinas?
The name is commonly linked to the Spanish word for spear, referring to their tusks.

References

  1. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum — https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Javelina.php
    Supports: Diet, range, habitat, and conservation status
  2. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/javelina
    Supports: Scientific name, classification, appearance, and conservation status
  3. U.S. National Park Service — https://www.nps.gov/orpi/learn/nature/javelina.htm
    Supports: Species identity, size, weight, native range, and omnivorous diet
  4. U.S. National Park Service — https://www.nps.gov/bibe/learn/nature/javelina.htm
    Supports: Range to Argentina and order Artiodactyla
  5. Arizona Game and Fish Department — https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife-conservation/living-with-wildlife/living-with-javelina/
    Supports: Social behaviour, habitat use, activity patterns
  6. Sabino Canyon Volunteer Naturalists — https://www.sabinonaturalists.org/critters/javelina/
    Supports: Physical traits, naming, group behaviour, and diet