Collared peccaries are a widespread animal which range from South-western United States through Central America and into South America. In South and Central America the collared peccary prefers to live in the tropical rainforests. Although, in North America they can be found roaming the deserts, which are particularly rich with prickly pears.
Peccaries mainly feed on berries, grass, roots, beans, nuts and cacti. In fact they rely very heavily on cacti such as the prickly pear since they have a very high water content. A good source of water is important in the drier climates. These animals will supplement their diet with animals such as insects and small lizards.
Predators of this pig-like animal include coyotes, mountain lions and jaguars, although the young and weak may also be preyed upon by bobcats, ocelots and the boa constrictor. The sharp upper canines and large herd formations are some of the defence mechanisms used by peccaries to protect themselves.
Females usually become mature around 8 to 14 months while the males are mature after 11 months. Breeding will occur all year long and is usually dependant upon the rain. During the wet and rainy years, more young tend to be born. The litter size of the peccary is between 1 and 4 young which have a gestation period of around 145 days.
Although, their hides have been a source of economic income for humans for decades, their population seems to remain healthy. Luckily the collared peccary is widespread and fairly abundant which leads to a conservation status of least concern.