Pygmy Hog

 

Scientific name

Sus salvanius

Global distribution

Southern Nepal and Bhutan, possibly northeastern India and Bangladesh

Habitat

Live in tall grasslands

Conservation status

Critically endangered.

Possibly only 100-150 individuals may remain

Physical characteristics

Body size

male

500-710 mm. Shoulder height 250-300 mm.  Weight 6.6 to 9.7 kg.

Colouring

Dark gray to black or brown

Hair

Stiff bristles and usually some finer fur.  The pelage is often quite scant and the tail is only lightly covered. 

There may be a mane on the nape and side whiskers.

Warts

Non warty face

Piglet colouring

Stripped piglets

Tail

30 mm

Side view

Detail of face side view

Dorsal view

Anatomical points

Peculiarities

3 pairs of mammae.  Non warty

Dental formulae

( i 3/3, c 1/1, pm 4/4, m 3/3) x 2 – 44

The canines in males the inferior surface is narrower than the posterior surface.  The female canines are small versions of the male.

Behaviour points

Maturing age

5-12 months male

6-  months female

Mating ritual

Males join group for mating and then leave.

Conflict

Animals walk parallel to each other, edge closer until shoulders touch and then shoving begins.

They may rear up, lean against each other and attempt to knock each other off balance.

In neither yields, thrust with the mouth open and tusks bared

Seasonal breeding

Breeding occurs throughout the year in the tropics, birth peaks shortly before or just after the rains.  In the temperate regions the young are born in the spring.

Oestrus period

18-24 days

Lactation

3 pairs of teats.  Lie down to suckle.

Weaning age

8-12 weeks

Family groups

Small groups of 6 females sow and litter.  Males solitary.