javelina phoenix

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Javelina in Phoenix: Understanding the Desert Dwellers

Javelinas, also known as collared peccaries, are common sights in Phoenix, Arizona. These pig-like mammals are native to the Sonoran Desert and have adapted to urban environments, often foraging for food in residential areas.

Living alongside these creatures requires understanding their behavior and taking precautions to avoid conflicts. Learning how to coexist peacefully is crucial for both human and javelina safety.

What are Javelinas?

Javelinas (Pecari tajacu) are not pigs, although they resemble them. They are members of the Tayassuidae family. Collared peccaries, as they are also known, are social animals, typically living in herds of 2 to 20 individuals. They are primarily active during the early morning and late evening, seeking shelter from the heat during the day. Javelinas have poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food.

Why are Javelinas in Phoenix?

Javelinas have adapted well to the urban environment in Phoenix due to habitat loss and readily available food sources. As human development encroaches on their natural habitat, javelinas are forced to seek food and shelter in residential areas. Common attractants include unsecured trash cans, pet food left outdoors, and vegetation in gardens.

Javelina Behavior and Diet

Javelinas are omnivores, with their diet consisting primarily of desert plants, such as cacti, mesquite beans, and roots. They also eat insects, rodents, and occasionally carrion. In urban areas, they will scavenge for human food and pet food. Despite their appearance, javelinas are generally not aggressive towards humans unless they feel threatened or are protecting their young.

How to Coexist with Javelinas

Living alongside javelinas requires taking certain precautions. Never feed javelinas, as this can lead to them becoming dependent on humans for food and losing their natural fear. Secure trash cans and store pet food indoors. Trim lower branches of shrubs and remove fallen fruit from trees to reduce potential food sources. Fencing can also be used to deter javelinas from entering yards.

What to do if you Encounter a Javelina

If you encounter a javelina, remain calm and avoid approaching it. Make yourself appear large by raising your arms and making noise. Slowly back away, giving the javelina space to move away. If a javelina approaches you aggressively, use pepper spray or throw objects to deter it. Report any aggressive javelina behavior to your local animal control.

Frequently Asked Questions About Javelinas in Phoenix

Are javelinas dangerous to humans?

Javelinas are generally not aggressive towards humans unless they feel threatened. However, they can become defensive if they feel their young are in danger or if they are cornered.

What do javelinas eat in the city?

In urban areas, javelinas eat a variety of foods, including vegetation, fruits, insects, and human food scraps found in trash cans. They also eat pet food if left outside.

How can I keep javelinas out of my yard?

You can keep javelinas out of your yard by securing trash cans, removing potential food sources, and installing fencing.

What should I do if a javelina approaches me?

If a javelina approaches you, stay calm, make yourself look big, and back away slowly. Do not feed it or try to touch it.

Are javelinas protected in Arizona?

Javelinas are classified as a game animal in Arizona and are regulated by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Hunting regulations apply.

Summary

Javelinas are a common sight in Phoenix, having adapted to urban environments. Understanding their behavior and taking precautions can help residents coexist peacefully with these desert dwellers. By securing food sources, avoiding direct contact, and respecting their space, we can minimize conflicts and ensure the safety of both humans and javelinas.

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