WARTHOG

Warthogs are members of the same family as domestic pigs, but present a much different appearance. These sturdy hogs are not among the world's most aesthetically pleasing animals—their large, flat heads are covered with "warts," which are actually protective bumps. Warthogs also sport four sharp tusks. They are mostly bald, but they do have some sparse hair and a thicker mane on their backs.

African hogs often utilize empty dens created by aardvarks. Rather than fight, they often choose flight, and search for such a den to use as a hidey-hole. They typically back in, using their tusks to effectively guard the entrance.Warthogs also use these dens to have their young. Females have litters of four or fewer young, which they suckle for about four months.Though warthogs appear ferocious, they are basically grazers. They eat grasses and plants, and also use their snouts to dig or “root” for roots or bulbs. When startled or threatened, warthogs can be surprisingly fast, running at speeds of up to 30 miles an hour.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Phacochoerus africanus

TYPE: Mammals

DIET: Herbivore

GROUP NAME: Sounder

AVERAGE LIFE SPAN IN THE WILD: 15 years

WEIGHT: 120 to 250 pounds

SIZE RELATIVE TO A 6-FT MAN

WHERE WILL YOU FIND THEM

You will find them at pen E34, right next to the Gemsboks