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Javelina

Javelina

by | Sep 3, 2020 | Animal

Are Javelinas pigs?

The peccary, commonly known as the Javelin, Javelina, what will be referenced in this article, or Musk hog, may be many things, but not a pig. Despite their similar appearance, the javelina is from the New World, whereas pigs are of the Old World. Their primary differences are more subtle, though still very prevalent in their physical structure. A few differences are as follows: the javelina has three toes on the hind foot (the wild pig has four), the javelina has 38 teeth (the wild pig has up to 44 teeth), the javelina has straight canine teeth (the wild pig has predominately curved canine teeth), the javelina has a short tail (the wild pig has a long one), and, finally, the javelina has scent glands (and the wild pig does not). These distinctions are some of the ways in which the javelina is distinguished from wild pigs, considering their foremost outward form is almost identical.

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Get to know the Javelina.

Javelinas have a large head and circular snout, small ears, short legs, and plump body that is covered in coarse black hair as well as a thin white collar around the neck. They average 2 feet in height, 3 to 4 feet in length, and weigh up to 55 pounds. The normal lifespan of a javelina in the wild is 7 years, though they have been recorded to live as many as 20 years. They are social animals who forge together in groups or “bands” ranging from 10 to 50 javelinas. The javelina is a known herbivore, surviving off of succulents, cacti, grasses, bulbs, prickly pears, etc. They have the ability of retaining water from such plants, which inherently makes water less of a viable asset to them on occasion. In addition, their peek eating times are morning, late afternoon, and evening; nighttime scavenging occurs only during summer seasons. Depending on the geographical location of the javelina, they will rest for the night in cervices and canyons within rock, shallow depressions within the Earth or heavily shrubby areas; they also huddle together for warmth and protection from looming predators.

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Where can the Javelina be found?

The javelina is found within South America and the more southern regions of North America with a presence within Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Particularly within Texas, the javelina is regarded as a game animal, hunted for sport, which has resulted from their notorious reputation of up-turning prized agricultural lands. Along with being human prey, they are also threatened by other predators such as coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, and even black bears; these aspects, in part, factor into the mortality rate of javelinas, which is 50% or higher at times.

When does breeding season begin for the Javelina?

Breeding season for the javelina is all throughout the year and for a lifetime after their first year. Most births take place in the spring and summer months of May, June, and July after a gestation period of 5 months. Javelinas will birth one to two offspring also known “reds” because of the vibrant copper tone they have when first born. The reds are weaned after 2 months and are able to consume solid foods, thereafter. They sometimes stay within family bands and identify each other through the scent glands on their rumps, which they will brush upon their surroundings as well as other javelinas; this will allow them to identify one another and steadily maintain their territory.

Wild Pig

Wild Pig

by | Aug 19, 2020 | Animal

Where are Wild Pigs found?

Wild Pigs, commonly referred to as wild boars, feral hogs, and/or not so much your barnyard pig, are easy to recognize through their notable traits and unique characteristics. Though once native to Eurasia and North Africa, wild pigs have demonstrated prominence in the Americas and Oceania. In addition, their litters span from 4 to 12 piglets and they can live up to 20 years with males averaging 400 pounds and females maintaining 300 pounds.

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The many unique traits and characteristics of the Wild Pig.

A broad trunk, large head, long snout, thin legs with medial hooves, innately coarse black hair, a straight and stringy black tail, developed canines, long tusks, and tall ears are all notable attributes of the wild pig; and they make the most of them. Wild pigs thrive in areas filled with brush; they use their sizable snouts and strong necks for rooting, digging, and scavenging. Because wild pigs can be found throughout many areas of the world, they must have the ability to adapt in order to survive; their diet attests to that as well. Wild pigs are omnivores; they have a diversified diet ranging from roots to berries, leaves to earthworms, bird eggs to fish, even snakes and frogs. Note that, due to the wide array of food ingested, wild pigs are highly susceptible to parasites, particularly in the summertime.

Why are Wild Pigs considered a nuisance?

Moreover, their boundless appetite has inherently bestowed them their title of “pest.” Their presence can be identified through up-churned dirt and ground cover as well as over-turned garbage cans; overpopulation has become a concern in many territories, which has incited an insurgence against them. But large as they may be, wild pigs can reach up to 25mph when prompted and have the ability to leap 60 inches into the air as means of evading their foe. Grey wolves are a known predator of wild pigs; however, depending on the region, wild pigs are also threatened by lynxes, jungle cats, snow leopards, brown bears, yellow-throat martens, and more. Males prefer solitude and remain quiet, while females are known to occasionally grunt. Wild pigs rarely attack humans, but it could happen, so best beware!

West Coast Pig Hunts

West Coast Pig Hunts

by | Aug 21, 2020 | Animal

Where is a good place to hunt wild pig?

Wild Pig Hunts can take you many places around the world. With a sound presence in Eurasia, North Africa, and Oceania, wild pigs have also adapted to areas in both North and South America as well. While all of these locations offer an inimitable experience that differs from the other, the focus of this article will tell you why your next wild pig hunting adventure should be in the Golden State of California, U.S.A. The Northern and Central regions of California, near coastlines and among the ever-present hills and valleys, wild pigs find their comfort with plenty of food, water, and mild weather conditions. The most ideal conditions happen before the summertime, after the rain and when the surrounding areas are thriving; this aspect leads us to the reason as to why California is such a great place for hunting wild pigs, there is no shortage of them.

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What are the benefits of a hunting guide service?

Wild pigs are open season, with hunting opportunities allotted year around. And with that in mind, there is the opportunity to hunt wild pigs on public lands designated for hunting, though, like other animals, “hunting pressure” is a factor to be considered. When wild pigs experience high hunting pressure in a particular area, they will seek refuge elsewhere. Hunting on public land is always the more affordable option; however, you must remain patient and highly observant in order to achieve success. When taking advantage of privately-owned land through a professional guide service, you leave the game management to them; for instance, hunting pressure is closely monitored, which furthers hunting opportunity and betters the outcome of the hunt.

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Enjoy the hunt. Enjoy the sun. Enjoy the West Coast.

Since wild pigs are particularly predictable, guides can easily scope out prominent traces and trails taken to waterholes along with possible migrations due to food sources that vary throughout the year in California. An example of this occurs in December; though wild pigs have a boundless-seeming diet, they enjoy nuts. Oak trees produce acorns that they love to munch on. And their location can clearly be identified in accordance to their food source, which, in this case, would be the oak trees, inherently making them easy to stalk. Wild pigs also prefer grassy areas, using brush for bedding; once this area has been scouted, you need only wait for the opportune moment. Wild pig hunts are also the more affordable option when hunting big game and the meat they produce is delectable. With a steady and adequate diet monitored through staff members and established farming practices still ample in California, you can be assured when booking your hunt with a hunting guide company, you will receive excellent quality game. Take part in authentic Western practices, while hunting wild pigs and enjoying the scenery as well as the unbeatable weather of the West Coast.