Visayan Warty Pig

Visayan Warty Pig at Wingham Wildlife Park

Visayan Warty Pig Natural History

Size

These pigs stand just 18 to 25 inches at the shoulder with a length of around 39 inches. Females generally do not weigh more than 77 pounds while males can weigh over 170 pounds.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is found only in The Philippines where it now covers just 9% of its original range. It can be found through a wide range of habitats but generally keeps to dense forest.

Age

The average lifespan of this species in the wild is 10 to 15 years whilst 20 years is not uncommon in captivity.

Diet

This is an omnivorous species which will feed on a wide variety of roots, flowers, vegetables, fruits and earthworms.

Groups and Breeding

Females will live in small groups with their young for some time, however they are fairly solitary animals other than this. During the mating season the males grow the hair on their head and slightly down their back which is thought to both make them look bigger and more intimidating towards other males as well as offering some protection during fighting. A female will choose a new mate every year and produce 2 to 4 piglets after a gestation of 118 days.

Threats

This species is becoming very rare in the wild, with the other sub species of this pig already believe to be extinct in the wild. They are classified the IUCN as a critically endangered species due to hunting and damage to its natural habitat.

Interesting Facts

Baby Warty Pigs are born with stripes to help them blend in to their dense forest habitat.

The Visayan Warty Pig During Your Day Out in Kent

We have two Visayan Warty Pigs here at Wingham Wildlife Park named Maximus and Achilles. They can be seen in next to our goats. Their diet here at the park is made up of pig pellets, vegetables, fruit, eggs and mealworms. However, their favourite foods are sweet potatoes and baked potatoes.