Bushpig Hunting African Safaris

Bushpig

(Potamochoerus larvatus)

Current all time records
SCI: Score 23 5/16 - Tanzania, Mt. Meru - 1971
Rowland Ward: Score 11 7/8 - Save R., Mozambique - 1966

Description: Unlike the red river hog, the coat of the bush pig is shaggy and varies in colour from light reddish brown to gray-brown to almost black. The long, bristly hairs form a distinct, partially erectile mane or cape over the dorsal part of the animal, starting between the ears and extending to the rear. The paler head is often found with contrasting white markings, although nowhere to the extend of the red river hog, while the ears having moderate tassels at their tips. Young are born with brown and yellow stripes, which they gradually lose over several months. The tail is long and tufted at the tip. The body is round and the legs relatively short. Males have a bony ridge and warts on the snout. The upper tusks are barely visible, but the lower tusks are razor sharp and grow 7 cm / 3 in. long.

Other Common Names:

Size:

Range: Most of sub-Saharan Africa except Namibia; year around.

Natural History: The predominantly nocturnal behaviour of the bush pig is believed to be related to the ambient temperature, as diurnal activity occurs more frequently in the cooler months. Shelter in which to rest is most often found in dense vegetation, and nests may be built during the rains or cold spells. Wallowing is a favorite activity. Bush pigs are often found following frugivorous monkeys, feeding off of discarded fruits, and are notorious for feeding on crops. The most common vocalization is a grunt, with squeals and roars being infrequently emitted. Contests between animals generally consist of forehead shoving matches. Daily movements vary from 0.5-5 kilometers / 0.3-3 miles per day. Groups inhabit home ranges up to 10 square kilometers in area, which are fairly exclusive. Population densities vary from 0.3-10.1 animals per square kilometer.

Hunting Characteristics: