Phacochoerus is a genus in the family Suidae, commonly known as warthogs (pronounced wart-hog). They are pigs who live in open and semi-open habitats, even in quite arid regions, in sub-Saharan Africa.
What is a warthog? The warthog is a tough, sturdy animal. Males weigh 9 to 23 kilograms (20 to 50 pounds) more than females, but both are distinguished by disproportionately large heads and “warts” — thick protective pads that appear on both sides of the head.
Warthog, (Phacochoerus aethiopicus), member of the pig family, Suidae (order Artiodactyla), found in open and lightly forested areas of Africa. The warthog is a sparsely haired, large-headed, blackish or brown animal standing about 76 centimetres (30 inches) at the shoulder.
The warthog is the only pig that is adapted to live and graze in savannah type habitats. They like more open areas and do not generally inhabit forests, rainforests and areas of dense undergrowth. Although they like more dry surroundings, warthogs wallow in muddy water daily.
Often misunderstood and sometimes underestimated, the warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) is far more than just a quirky face of the African savanna. This iconic wild pig, with its distinctive facial warts and impressive tusks, plays a vital role in its ecosystem and boasts a fascinating life story.
Lions, cheetahs, leopards, painted dogs, hyenas, and eagles all like to snack on a warthog when they get a chance. Warthogs have longer legs than other swine. This allows them to run away from these potential predators, reaching speeds of up to 34 miles (55 kilometers) per hour.
There are two warthog species, the widespread common warthog and the desert warthog. Common warthogs have larger tusks and more extensive manes than their desert cousins, and are commonly found across sub-Saharan Africa in open plains, grassland savannahs, and woodlands.