BABIRUSA
Babyrousa babyrussa
DESCRIPTION
The Babirusa, also known as the deer pig, is a unique species of wild pig native to Indonesia. It is notable for its long, curved tusks that can grow through the skin of its snout.
FUN FACTS
- Babirusas are known for their unique tusks that can grow up to 30 cm long | They are excellent swimmers and can often be found in water | The name 'Babirusa' translates to 'pig-deer' in the local language
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight50-100 kg
Average Length1.0-1.5 m
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary or small groups, typically consisting of a mother and her young
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round
- Habitat
- Babirusas inhabit tropical forests and swamps, often found near water sources. They prefer dense vegetation that provides cover and food.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Wetlands
- Native Range
- The Babirusa is native to the Indonesian islands of Sulawesi and the surrounding smaller islands.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Indonesia
- Diet
- Babirusas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials including fruits, leaves, and roots. They may also consume small animals and carrion on occasion.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- fruits, roots, and leaves
- Social Structure
- solitary or small groups, typically consisting of a mother and her young
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
50-100 kg
Weight
1.0-1.5 m
Length
- Coloration
- light brown to gray with sparse bristles
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males have larger tusks than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 150 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to logging and agriculture, as well as hunting for bushmeat.
- Predators
- humans, large carnivores (where present)
- Defense Mechanisms
- Babirusas rely on their agility and ability to hide in dense vegetation to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon