While the adult Javelinas weigh 40 to 60 pounds a newborn piglet weighs just one pound. The average litter is two. Up to about three months the piglets are a reddish-brown and sometimes called "reds". Javelina continue to grow until they reach adult height in about 10 months. At this age, the javelina are sexually mature. Being of tropical origin, peccaries are capable of breeding throughout the year. This long breeding season, early maturity, and the ability to have two litters in one year gives them the greatest reproductive potential. Breeding peaks in January, February, and March. After a 145-day gestation period, most births occur in June, July, and August. This peak corresponds with the maximum rainfall period. Unlike other animals, the javelina does not lick the offspring at birth, but rolls or tumbles it. The young are precocial, following their mothers shortly after birth and are usually weaned at six weeks. The average lifespan of the Javelina is seven to eight years.
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| Javelina with young Piglet |
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