Tayassu

Tayassu is a genus of peccaries in the family Tayassidae, a group of pig-like hoofed mammals native to the Americas. Members are found from Mexico through Central America into parts of South America, inhabiting forests, savannas, and wetlands, often near water and fruiting trees.

Physically, Tayassu are medium-sized, with stocky bodies, short legs, and elongated snouts used for rooting in soil and leaf litter. They possess tusk-like canine teeth that grow continuously and are used for defense and foraging. Fur is coarse and typically brown to gray, with color variation among species and individuals.

Ecology and behavior: They live in social groups called sounders that may include several dozen individuals. They are omnivorous, consuming fruits, seeds, tubers, roots, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. Vocalizations, scent marking, and social interactions coordinate movement, defense, and territory. They are mainly diurnal or crepuscular, with activity patterns influenced by temperature and food availability.

Reproduction: Mating systems are usually polygynous. Gestation lasts around 140 days, and litters commonly range from 2 to 6 offspring. Juveniles are weaned after a few months and reach maturity at about one year.

Conservation: Populations are affected by habitat loss, hunting, and disease outbreaks in some regions. Conservation status varies by species and locale, with some populations declining in parts of their range while others persist in protected areas.