White-lipped peccary

Scientific name: Tayassu pecari

How weight is recorded: Carcass weight

Field notes

Appearance

Dark brown to blackish coat with a distinctive white or pale band running from the jaw to the shoulder; smaller ears and shorter tail than collared peccaries. Males are slightly larger and more robust than females, with pronounced shoulder musculature.

Size and weight

Males 20–30 kg, females 16–25 kg; body length 75–104 cm. Shoulder height approximately 50–60 cm.

Habitat

White-lipped peccaries inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, preferring humid lowland rainforests and deciduous forests from sea level to 2,500 m elevation. They require dense vegetation and proximity to water sources.

Distribution

Range extends from southern Mexico through Central America to the Amazon basin and central South America. Prefer undisturbed primary and mature secondary forests with minimal human presence.

Diet

Primary diet consists of fallen fruits (especially palms and mast), roots, tubers, and fungi; also browse leaves, cacti, and invertebrates depending on seasonal availability.

Behaviour

Highly social animals traveling in herds of 5–15 individuals (occasionally larger groups); primarily diurnal and crepuscular but active throughout the day. Herds move considerable distances daily and communicate via vocalizations and scent marking.

Hunting tips

Track sign includes linear herd trails through dense cover, three-toed hoofprints (4–5 cm), and scattered dark droppings. Approach from downwind along established trails during early morning or late afternoon; they rely on scent and sound, so silent stalking through quiet terrain is essential. Use calls to locate herds, then position ahead of movement or along known travel corridors.

Carcass weight

This species is logged by carcass weight — the animal weighed dressed, the way hunting teams normally report it.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 7 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.