Chacoan Peccary

Scientific Name: Catagonus wagneri

The Chacoan Peccary has special adaptations for the dry conditions of the Chaco, including large nasal sinuses to prevent dust inhalation and slim legs for easier access through dense forests.

• Size: head-to-body length 35 to 43 inches, tail length 1 to 4 inches
• Weight: 65 to 88 pounds
• Diet: Cacti, fruit, roots and herbs. To obtain essential minerals they lick and eat mineral-rich soil from naturally occurring salt licks
• Habitat: Areas of low rainfall and high temperature, restricted to the driest parts of the Gran Chaco terrain
• Range in the Wild: Dry Chaco of Western Paraguay, Southeastern Bolivia and Northern Argentina

Conservation Status

Listed as Endangered. Rapidly declining population due to habitat loss and over-hunting.

Zoo Parent

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