"Javelina (Tayassu tajacu) also known as collared peccary, are medium-sized animals that look similar to a wild boar. They have mainly short coarse salt and pepper colored hair, short legs, and a pig-like nose. The hair around the neck/shoulder area is lighter in color giving it the look of a collar. Javelina have long, sharp canine teeth which protrude from the jaws about an inch."
We've seen Javelina at the Sonoran Desert Museum but never previously encountered them in our treks. They are best avoided because they can be very protective of their young, and those long canine teeth can inflict serious damage.
During a recent visit to the Saguaro National Park - East we came across a large group crossing the highway. There is also a significant amount of bicycle traffic en route to the park, but I guess the Javelinas like the early morning, too. This is similar to the activity of ducks up north who will cross streets with their ducklings in tow.
Traffic stopped and allowed the group of about 12 javelinas to cross. "Share the Road".
Original material: https://roadtrek210.blogspot.com/
