“J” is for javelina – a member of the peccary family, and like the book titled “Don’t Call Me Pig” by Conrad J. Storad – don’t call this animal a pig!
Javelinas can be found in the southwestern area of the United States, and throughout Central and South America. They usually measure between 3- 4.3 ft. in length, and a full-grown adult will usually weighs between 44 to 88 lbs. They’re social animals, and usually travel in herds. Javelinas also STINK, which is the reason they have the nickname of “skunk pig”. The stench is due to scent glands they use to mark their territory, as well as other members of their herds. Why do they mark other members of their herd? Because javelinas have really bad eyesight!
Speaking of territory, these critters are very territorial, and aggressive. They aren’t able to be domesticated, and will attack humans if you get too close to their herds (especially if they have babies with them).
Javelinas are omnivores, and while their food of choice consists of roots, grass, seeds, and cacti—especially prickly pear cacti, they will eat small animals. So if you go hiking with your pet in the areas where you know there are javelina herds, make sure you keep your pet on a leash and an eye out for javelinas!
Along the way with Julia 
Apr 11, 2013 @ 04:16:22
This is my first time to read about the javelina. It kinda resembles Pumbaa from Lion King. He was a warthog, I think.
From the A-Z neighborhood,
Dee is for Deecoded
Apr 16, 2013 @ 12:55:10
Thank you so much for stopping by! I’ll visit you this evening. 🙂
Apr 16, 2013 @ 12:55:42
Oh…yes, Pumba was a warthog. 🙂
Apr 11, 2013 @ 18:37:46
Those things scare the crud out of me. I hope I never see one running through my neighborhood!
Apr 16, 2013 @ 12:54:44
I haven’t seen one in the wild either (yet, and hoping it STAYS that way), but I’ve heard they’ll chase a person who just comes across a pack and try to attack – especially if they have young they’re trying to protect. The good news is they have horrible eyesight – but I’ve heard they have excellent smell. With my luck, the javelinas would smell the fear on me, and know just where to run!
Apr 13, 2013 @ 17:09:03
Yep, not a fan of snakes, but a lot of people are…men and women! I am scared to death of them actually, and while I know they have to eat…I just don’t like what they eat.
Apr 16, 2013 @ 12:48:40
As long as they stay where they are, I do my best to leave. them. alone. 😉