Babirusa
Babyrousa babyrussa
Conservation Status
Near ThreatenedMammalia · Artiodactyla · Suidae
About
Babirusas, also called deer-pigs, are a genus, Babyrousa, in the swine family found in the Indonesian islands of Sulawesi, Togian, Sula and Buru. Previously all members of this genus were considered part of a single species, B. babyrussa, but in 2002 they were split into several species. The Buru babirusa is now restricted to animals from Buru and Sula, whereas the best-known species, the North Sulawesi babirusa, is named B. celebensis. The males have prominent upwards incurving canine tusks, which pierce the flesh in the snout.
Fun Fact
Male babirusa have upper canine teeth that grow upward through the top of the snout and curve back toward the skull — if not worn down, they can eventually grow into the animal's own forehead.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical rainforests
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
10-24 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Wildfire
- Poaching