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Warthog (Phacochoerus aethiopicus)

THE HERBIVORES AND OMNIVORES

Warthog

Ridiculed and scorned by virtually everyone, warthogs are held in unenviable low esteem because of their somewhat repugnant appearance. With their massive knobbed heads in total disproportion to body size, they are undeniably unattractive but nevertheless well adapted to their particular way of life. Kneeling down, they use the toughened snout to scratch and dig for roots or to nibble at tufts of grass cropped close to the ground by the larger species of herbivore.

Warthogs have a sparsely haired grayish skin and peculiar fleshy lumps or 'warts' on the face. Both sexes have tusks which protrude from near the front of the head, those of the male being much larger than those of the female.

These pig-like animals, well-known for their strength and toughness, never hesitate to put up a fierce, relentless fight if cornered. Many dogs have lost their lives - and even leopards are known to have come off second-best - after being ripped open by the wicked tusks of the boars.

Warthogs are common in most areas and usually live in small family groups up to seven strong. At night, they rest in the protective confines of tunneled excavations, coming out by day to feed and drink. When threatened, they run for their burrows and enter rear end first, tusks facing outwards to ward off any danger, which may follow them.

The long, thin, tufted tails, which are held stiffly upright when running, are believed to serve as beacons so that the members of a group can see each other and remain close when running through tall grass.

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