Have you seen the piglets in the San Diego Zoo’s Monkey Trails and Forest Tales habitat recently? A few months ago, our resident male pigs were sent to another zoo to be with females and we moved a family group of Visayan warty pigs from their home on Elephant Mesa. We were very excited to receive our new residents, as they came complete with piglets!

Visayan warty pigs are small forest dwellers found only on two islands in the central Philippines. Due to habitat loss and hunting pressures, these pint-sized pigs are listed as critically endangered. Since they are notorious for raiding crops, they are often viewed as pests by the local people. The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), however, has sent out an urgent appeal for zoos to initiate breeding programs. And the San Diego Zoo was the first zoo, outside the Philippines, to breed and exhibit these wonderful animals. Who could resist having these adorable little piglets around?

Visayan warty piglets are usually born during the dry seasons (January through March), and start their life striped to blend in with vegetation. Usually within six months they start to take on the adult gray coat. During the mating season, males grow spiky ” hairdos.” But even this ” punk rock” look doesn’t discourage us from seeing their true fun and lovable personalities! These pigs are very curious and playful, and we frequently give them ” toys” or mud wallows to romp around in.

We hope you enjoy watching our new little family group as much as we do!

Nerissa Foland is a senior keeper at the San Diego Zoo.

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