Municipality of Tourist Interest
Animals of the Brazilian Fauna
Cateto
Nome Científico
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Nome Científico
Pecari tajacu
Características
Also known as the peccary, the collared peccary is a medium-sized mammal, weighing between 15 and 30 kg. It has thick, dark fur, usually black or gray, and a distinctive white stripe around its neck. Its body is compact and robust, with short legs.
Ocorrência
The collared peccary is found in a wide range of habitats in South America, including rainforests, savannas, cerrado, and even semi-arid areas. It is common in Brazil, especially in the Amazon, Pantanal, and Cerrado.
Comportamento
These animals are social and live in groups of up to 50 individuals. They are mainly active during the day and can be quite noisy, emitting grunts and other sounds to communicate. They are territorial and use scent glands to mark their territory.
Alimentação
Collared peccaries are omnivorous, with a diet that includes fruits, roots, seeds, small animals, and insects. They play an important role in seed dispersal, helping to maintain the biodiversity of their range.
Reprodução
Gestation lasts approximately 144-148 days, and the female usually gives birth to 1 to 2 pups per litter. The young become independent after about 2 to 3 months, although they remain with the group for longer.
Preservação
Although the collared peccary is not listed as threatened, it faces pressures such as hunting and habitat destruction. It is hunted for its meat and its skin in some regions.
Curiosidades
Peccaries have scent glands on their backs that produce a characteristic smell, used for social communication and defense.
Unlike pigs, peccaries have a shorter canine tooth that does not form tusks, and an additional bone structure that helps protect the spine.