Villisika

Villisika, Finnish for wild boar, refers to the mammal Sus scrofa, a large omnivorous member of the pig family (Suidae). It is native to Eurasia and northern Africa and has been introduced to many other regions, including the Americas and parts of Oceania, for hunting, farming, or escape release. Wild boars adapt to a variety of habitats, especially woodlands, forests with undergrowth, and agricultural edges.

Adult bodies typically 90–165 cm in length, with a shoulder height of about 75–110 cm and a weight that can range from 50 to over 100 kg, with males often larger. The coat is coarse and bristly, usually dark brown or black, and a mane runs along the neck. Both sexes have tusks—the upper canine teeth grow continuously and curve upward as they mature, more pronounced in boars.

They are omnivores, feeding on roots, tubers, seeds, fruits, invertebrates, eggs, carrion, and crops. They are highly social, with females forming sounders that include their young; adult males are often solitary or semi-social. Breeding occurs mainly in late autumn; gestation is about 114 days, and litters typically consist of 4–8 piglets.

Ecologically, villisika can significantly modify vegetation and soil through rooting and wallowing, and they may compete with native species while causing crop damage. Predators include wolves, large cats, bears, and humans.

Conservation status is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to wide distribution and large populations, though local populations can be affected by habitat change, hunting pressure, or disease outbreaks such as African swine fever. Management often involves regulated hunting, habitat management, and fencing to protect crops.