Feral Hogs and Javelina

Feral hogs and javelina look alike, but they are different animals managed in very different ways.

Feral hog or javelina: feral hogs are invasive pigs, while javelina are native collared peccary managed as game
Feral hog or javelina

Feral hogs

Feral hogs descend from domestic pigs and Eurasian wild boar. They are an invasive species that tears up crops, competes with deer and turkeys, and spreads disease.

A javelina in brushy cover on a desert slope
A javelina in brushy cover

Javelina

The javelina, or collared peccary, is a native animal of the desert Southwest. It belongs to a separate family from pigs and is managed as a game animal with seasons and tags.

Why it matters

Hog rules aim at control, while javelina rules aim at a healthy population. Know which animal you are hunting.

Sources