Red River Hog
The red river hog is a fascinating species native to the forests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. Known for their reddish fur and the distinctive snout, these hogs are the smallest of the African pig species, weighing between 100-285 pounds. Despite their relatively small size, red river hogs are tough and resilient, with males being significantly larger than females. To protect themselves during fights with other males, which often occur during battles for dominance, males have warts on their snouts to shield them from each other’s tusks.
Red river hogs are omnivorous foragers, spending most of their day searching for roots, fruits, insects, and small reptiles. They are highly adapted for digging thanks to their large, powerful snouts. Their diet can also include carrion and even small mammals.
These hogs are social animals and live in groups, typically consisting of 12-20 individuals. Their behavior is often centered around foraging and digging, as they constantly search for food in their habitat.
Poe, Raven and their sons, Edgar, Allan, Clemm and Tucker
You’ll often spot them using their snouts to dig for hidden food, and they love wallowing in mud, which is why you'll frequently see muddy nose prints on their enclosure windows. Their natural instinct to forage and dig is encouraged through enrichment activities that include shredding bags, boxes, and cardboard—especially when there’s food hidden inside. They enjoy exploring and playing, keeping their minds and bodies active.
Our hogs are given a specialized diet of herbivore biscuits, bovine chow, fresh fruits and vegetables and peanuts for a special treat.
Their enrichment activities include opportunities to dig, shred, and interact with new items in their habitat, mimicking their natural behaviors and promoting mental stimulation.