The animal commonly known as the javelina, or collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu), is frequently encountered across its native range, spanning from the Southwestern United States through Central and South America. Often mistaken for a wild pig, the javelina belongs to a separate biological family, the Tayassuidae. It is characterized by a stocky body, a coarse, salt-and-pepper coat, and a distinctive white band of hair around its neck. As human development expands into desert and scrub habitats, encounters with these highly social mammals are increasing, prompting concern about the potential danger they pose. Understanding the behavior of the collared peccary is the first step in accurately assessing the risk these animals present to people.
General Threat Level
Javelinas are not inherently dangerous to humans and are not classified as predators. Their natural disposition is timid, and their primary response to a perceived threat is usually to flee the area. They possess notoriously poor eyesight, which is partially compensated for by an excellent sense of smell and hearing. When startled, a javelina may charge away, and due to its poor vision, this flight response can sometimes be misinterpreted as aggression toward a person.
Fatalities or serious, unprovoked attacks on humans are extremely rare. Javelinas are equipped with straight, razor-sharp canine teeth, or tusks, used for defense and for slicing through tough desert vegetation. These specialized teeth interlock, allowing them to inflict a deep, serious wound if they feel compelled to defend themselves or their herd. The potential for serious injury defines their moderate threat level.
Specific Situations Leading to Aggression
Javelinas become aggressive almost exclusively for defensive reasons, typically when they perceive a direct threat to their herd, their young, or their safety. One common trigger for a defensive attack is the presence of a dog, which the javelina instinctively perceives as a coyote, its natural predator. The javelina will often charge a dog, even one on a leash, and an owner intervening in this conflict is highly susceptible to a bite wound.
The instinct to protect young, often called “reds,” overrides their typical shyness and can lead to aggressive behavior. A mother javelina will vigorously defend her offspring if she feels they are threatened by a person or a pet. Aggression is also triggered if a javelina feels physically cornered or trapped, such as in a fenced yard or a garage, where its flight path is blocked.
The most frequent cause of human-javelina conflict stems from the animal’s habituation to human food sources. When javelinas are intentionally fed or accidentally access pet food and garbage, they lose their innate fear of humans. This loss of natural caution creates bold individuals who may aggressively confront a person or pet over a discovered food source. Before a defensive charge, a javelina will display warning signs, such as teeth clacking, which creates a chattering noise, or a barking-growling sound.
Preventing Conflict
Minimizing the potential for a defensive encounter relies on removing attractants and maintaining a safe distance. Homeowners should secure all outdoor food sources.
Securing Property
Use locking or weighted lids on garbage cans.
Store pet food inside.
Pick up fallen fruit promptly.
Avoid bird feeders, as spilled seed attracts the animals.
If a javelina is sighted, keep all dogs on a leash and immediately pick up small pets. This ensures the javelina does not feel threatened by a perceived predator.
Should an encounter occur, the best response is to make yourself appear large, stand your ground, and make loud noises, such as yelling or clapping. Javelinas dislike water, so spraying them with a garden hose can be an effective, non-harmful deterrent. Always allow the javelina a clear escape route and back away slowly to avoid cornering the animal.