This informative post will be published on Saturday in place of my regular one.  You are invited to participate with the opening question.

Brain Teaser Question

What runs around the whole yard without moving?

BONUS TEASER:  What flowers are kissable?

(answer found at the end of this post)

Featured Facts

Peccaries or javelinas are one of America’s least-known animals.  With a range found in the southwestern desserts and foothills, these creatures are also found in Central and South America.

Here are a few quick facts about peccaries:

• Length:  3-4 feet
• Weight:  35-60 pounds, but some species may approach 90 pounds
• Sprinting Speed:  25 mph
• Diet:  (considered omnivores) roots, seeds, grasses, fruits, small animals
• Lifespan:  8-10 years in the wild (up to 24 years in captivity)

Peccaries resemble domesticated pigs in certain ways with their snorting, woofing, and grunting noises.  They possess a pig-like snout, small eyes, small ears along with a robust body with short legs.  However, their coarse body hair is in contrast to a pig’s exterior, and they are extremely aggressive in the wild.  

Peccaries spend much of their time resting and eating.  They typically forage for food during evenings and early morning hours.  Their poor eyesight (extremely nearsighted) is offset by good hearing.

Their sharp, straight tusks are razor-sharp, and these allow peccaries to rip into roots and aid in their defense against predators.  Common predators include coyotes, mountain lions, and humans.

Peccaries are very social in their structure within each herd.  Some herds may contain up to 100 members, but the usual size is closer to 6 to 12.  In southern Arizona, small herds of peccaries will sometimes cross through front yards.

clockwise from top left:  collared species, white-lipped species, female with piglets, immature duo, herd roaming in arizona.  (Images courtesy of Pinterest)

Answer to Brain Teaser Question

Fence

BONUS:  Tulips