The javelina, or collared peccary, is native to the American Southwest and Central America. These animals are generally timid and prefer to avoid human contact, as they are not predatory toward people. However, javelinas are social wild animals that will defend themselves aggressively if they perceive a threat, are cornered, or if their young are involved. Understanding their natural behavior is the first step in safely coexisting with this species.
Javelina Social Behavior and Diet
Javelinas belong to the family Tayassuidae, or peccaries, and are often mistaken for wild pigs. They are highly social, living in multi-generational herds that typically range from six to 15 individuals, though larger groups have been observed. The entire herd moves, forages, and rests together, relying on each other for defense and social cohesion.
To maintain this close social structure, they use a distinct communication method involving a scent gland located on their rump. Members of the herd rub heads and necks on this gland, mixing their individual scents to create a unified group odor that helps them identify each other and mark their territory. Javelinas are omnivores, but their diet is predominantly herbivorous, consisting mainly of prickly pear cactus, roots, tubers, and mesquite beans. They use their strong snouts to root for food underground.
Triggers for Defensive Aggression
Javelinas are not predisposed to attack humans, but several specific scenarios can provoke a defensive charge. The most frequent and intense trigger for aggression is the presence of domestic dogs, which javelinas perceive as natural predators like coyotes. They will confront a dog directly, often in a group, and have sharp, long canine teeth that can inflict serious injury on a pet.
Protecting their young, known as “reds” for their reddish-brown coats, is another reliable trigger for a defensive response. A herd with pups will be highly reactive to anything they view as a threat to the juveniles, including an unsuspecting person who accidentally gets too close. Furthermore, javelinas possess notoriously poor eyesight, and if startled or feeling trapped, they may charge in a panic, not because they are attacking, but because they are attempting to blindly escape a perceived danger. This reaction is often misinterpreted as an unprovoked attack.
Preventing Conflicts in Residential Areas
Reducing the presence of javelinas near a home relies on removing the attractants that draw them into human spaces. Pet food should always be fed indoors, and any unsecured garbage should be stored in cans with locking lids, as javelinas are strong enough to knock over and dismantle standard containers. Fallen fruit from trees must be picked up immediately, as this provides a high-calorie, easily accessible food source.
For gardens and yards, fencing is the most effective physical barrier against javelinas seeking food or water. Low-voltage electric fencing, installed approximately eight to ten inches off the ground, has proven successful in deterring them from problem areas. Homeowners can also discourage javelina visits by using motion-activated sprinklers or planting species that are less palatable to them, such as herbs or plants with a strong fragrance.
Immediate Steps During an Encounter
If you unexpectedly encounter javelinas nearby, the most important action is to remain calm and avoid any sudden movements that might startle them. Running away is not advised, as it can trigger their natural chase instinct and is unlikely to succeed due to their speed. Instead, slowly back away while maintaining a safe distance and creating an escape route for the animals.
If the javelinas appear agitated or move toward you, immediately make yourself seem threatening and loud to re-establish their natural fear of humans. This involves yelling, clapping your hands, or stomping your feet to create noise, which is particularly effective given their poor eyesight. If you are walking a dog, pick up small pets immediately, position yourself between the animal and your dog, and continue making noise until the javelinas retreat.