Javelinas: The Chaotic Southwest Swine & How to Survive an Encounter

If you spend enough time hiking, camping, or off-roading in the Southwest, you’ll eventually cross paths with the mysterious and mildly chaotic Southwest Swine—the javelina. These hoofed hooligans roam the landscape in small herds, snorting, grunting, and occasionally scaring the life out of unsuspecting adventurers. But despite their questionable attitude and unmistakable odor, they’re an important part of the ecosystem. Here’s what you need to know about javelinas and how to handle an unexpected face-off in the wild.

Not a Pig, But Close Enough

First things first—javelinas aren’t actually pigs (despite the nickname). They belong to the peccary family, which means they’re more like distant, desert-dwelling cousins to wild boars. But let’s be honest, with their stout bodies, coarse fur, and love of scavenging, they might as well be honorary swine.

Javelinas travel in herds called squadrons (yes, really), and their favorite activities include foraging, knocking over trash cans, and looking vaguely unimpressed with humans. They also have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell, which means they’ll likely sniff you out before they see you.

What to Do If You Encounter a Javelina

🐗 Stay Calm and Give Them Space – If you stumble upon a herd of Southwest Swine, resist the urge to freak out (or worse, try to pet one). Javelinas usually aren’t aggressive, but they can and will defend themselves if they feel cornered—especially if babies are involved.

🐕 Keep Dogs Leashed – Javelinas see dogs as predators, and they’ll charge to defend themselves if they feel threatened. Many close encounters happen when unleashed dogs run up to them. Keep your pup close to avoid an unnecessary showdown.

🥪 Guard Your Snacks – Javelinas have a reputation for dumpster-diving and food theft. If you’re camping or picnicking, secure your food properly—unless you enjoy waking up to a squadron of Southwest Swine raiding your supplies.

🚶‍♂️ Back Away Slowly – If a javelina seems agitated (bristling fur, clacking teeth, or an impressive display of snorting), don’t make sudden movements. Back away slowly and calmly until they lose interest.

Javelina Myths vs. Truths

❌ Myth: Javelinas are just wild pigs. ✅ Truth: They’re peccaries, a separate species that evolved in the Americas.

❌ Myth: They’ll chase you for no reason. ✅ Truth: Javelinas usually run away from people—unless they’re startled, defending babies, or you look particularly snack-worthy.

❌ Myth: They’re pests that don’t belong here. ✅ Truth: Javelinas are native to the Southwest and play a key role in seed dispersal and controlling plant overgrowth.

Respect the Southwest Swine

At the end of the day, javelinas just want to live their best desert life—sniffing around, foraging for food, and avoiding unnecessary drama. By keeping a respectful distance, securing your food, and keeping dogs leashed, you can safely coexist with these quirky creatures.

So next time you see a javelina on the trail, take a deep breath (preferably upwind) and admire these rugged little desert dwellers from afar. Just don’t leave your snacks unattended… unless you’re ready to make a new (and very hungry) friend.