In all the years we have been coming to Arizona we have only had a few fleeting sightings of Javelina (pronounced Havalina). This year they are making a regular trip down the wash behind our house and munching on the prickly pear cactus. At this rate the cactus will all be gone by spring.
Apparently they consider the cactus quite the delicacy. Like most cactus the prickly pear is covered in needle sharp thorns but that doesn't appear to affect the Javelina in the least. They use their long pig like snouts to nudge the cactus branches until they break off and then munch away.
These two were happily consuming their tender morsels, thorns and all, then the one on the left decided to chase the other one away from their dinner.
A little scuffle ensued and then, having reestablished their hierarchy, they resumed their meal.
Its hard to see but their incisors are pretty big and sharp and I can see why you don't want to corner them as they have been known to injure people and even kill family pets if they feel threatened.
Although not carnivores if I walk out back after dark I always shine my flashlight around to make sure I don't startle them and they decide to attack rather than run away.
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