Warthog
In the wild
Scientific name: Phacochoerus africanus
Status: Not listed as Threatened
Distribution: Africa, South of Sahara, savannah or lightly forested areas
Type: Mammal
Diet: Herbivore
At Marwell Wildlife
Did you know: when startled or threatened, warthogs can run at speeds of up to 30 miles (48 kilometers) an hour.
About Warthogs
Warthogs live in clans, with each clan consisting of several small groups. The groups are made up of 4 – 16 individuals. The adult males are usually solitary, joining the female group briefly for mating. During the mating season males engage in highly ritualised battles, pushing and striking with the head and blunt upper tusks. The warts on the side of the head cushion the blow and injuries are rare. There are clearly defined breeding seasons, with mating at its peak 4 – 5 months are the start of the rainy season, and births take place mainly in the dry season.
Abandoned aardvark holes are usually taken over by warthogs at night. They also retreat to the holes to escape predators and to rear their young.
Warthogs feed on grass, roots, berries and the bark of young trees. While feeding they drop onto their padded wrists and shuffle along – Warthogs are the only species of pig to move on their wrists.
Adopt a Warthog from £50.00
Our General Adoption scheme includes all this:
- A special Adoption Certificate
- Recognition at your adopted animal's home
- A photo of a Warthog
- A day pass to Marwell Wildlife
- An annual subscription to Marwell News
- Warthog fact sheet
- Presentation folder
- Access to online Adopters Zone
- Car sticker
Want to help even more? Choose Premium Adoption below!