Factfile
Where they live
Central and South America
Habitat
Tropical rainforest, tropical dry forest, wet and dry grasslands
Size
1.1 m
Weight
Up to 50 kg
Lifespan
13 years
Threats
Habitat loss and hunting
Did you know...
- Peccaries can run up to 22mph
- They have such a good sense of smell that they can detect bulbs up to 8cm below soil’s surface
- They are so aggressive that they have been known to kill jaguars when defending themselves
More about peccaries...
The white-lipped peccary is omnivorous, feeding on fruit, nuts, invertebrates and sometimes fish. They prefer to stay near water sources where fruits are plenty.
There is no specific breeding season, they will mate throughout the year. After a gestation period of 156-162 days, peccaries normally give birth to twins.
They form large herds of up to 300 or more, but groups of up to 2000 have been reported. Because there are so many in a single group, they have developed scent glands on their backs which allow them to bond and recognise each other.
How you can help...
Adopt a Peccary (White-lipped)!
Help prevent animals from becoming extinct by adopting an animal, you'll be supporting our zoo too!
Gold Adoption
Help support our zoo with a Gold adoption package with an additional zoo admission ticket, and personalised message displayed outside your adopted animalʼs enclosure.
£55.00
Find out moreSilver Adoption
Help support our zoo with a Silver adoption package it includes an adoption certificate, a zoo admission ticket and lots of zoo treats!
£41.50
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