Pigs: Suidae

Physical characteristics: Eurasian wild pigs weigh from 77 to 770 pounds (35 to 350 kilograms), though domestic species can reach 990 pounds (450 kilograms). They stand anywhere from 22 to 43 inches (55 to 110 centimeters) tall. Their skin is covered with short bristles of varying color. Males have larger tusks than females.

Geographic range: Eurasian wild pigs are found on all continents except Antarctica. They also live on islands.

Habitat: Eurasian wild pigs live in a variety of habitats, including tropical rainforests, woodlands, grassland, and agricultural lands.

Diet: About 90 percent of the Eurasian wild pig's diet is vegetation. They feed on roots, grasses, fruits, seeds, nuts, agricultural crops, carrion, invertebrates and vertebrates. Eurasian wild pigs have been known to migrate, travel to another region, when food is scarce.

Behavior and reproduction: Eurasian wild pigs are mostly active in the morning and afternoon. The basic social unit is a small group of

Eurasian wild pigs have been known to travel to other areas when food is scarce. (© Uwe Walz/Jacana/Photo Researchers, Inc. Reproduced by permission.)

females and their young. Adult males are solitary, lone. These pigs are active 40 to 65 percent of the time.

Eurasian wild pigs and people: Eurasian wild pigs are eaten by humans more than any other species of pig. Because they do major damage to crops, they are considered a pest by many locals. Eurasian wild pigs are hunted commercially and for food. Their skulls are displayed as protection from evil spirits. Domesticated pigs are used as money for the payment of fines or fees for brides in some cultures.

Conservation status: Eurasian wild pigs are not threatened. ∎