Having tusks is a point of pride for many species, yet for some, these tusks can cause significant trouble and even lead to their demise.
In Indonesia, there exists one of the most peculiar pig species in the world. They are considered strange because this pig has a set of tusks along with two “horns” protruding from its snout. They are also known as Babirusa (Babyrousa), with the scientific name Babyrousa babyrussa.
Babirusas are native to the islands of Sulawesi and surrounding areas in Indonesia. They are the only members of the genus Babyrousa. Their habitat consists of dense shrubs in tropical rainforests and reed beds, as well as the banks of rivers and lakes.
They have little to no hair, with a mottled brown and gray skin that aids in their camouflage. Babirusas are known for their two pairs of tusks: both upper and lower pairs are quite large, curved backward, then bending forward again.
The upper tusks of male Babirusas are so curved and large that they protrude visibly through the flesh, breaking through the skin at the tip of the snout. The two tusks on the snout are considered to be similar to ivory. Babirusas are relatively large animals, with adults weighing up to 250 kg, and even 300 kg. Interestingly, this species has three stomachs, which is why they are also known as ruminants.
Female Babirusas have shorter tusks. After a gestation period of about 125 to 150 days, females typically give birth to two piglets. Babirusas are omnivorous, enjoying leaves, roots, fruits, and even small animals. Their strong jaws can easily crack open hard nuts.
The upper tusks of male Babirusas are so curved and large that they break through the skin at the tip of the snout. The remaining tusks on the snout are also considered to be ivory. Despite their impressive appearance, these tusks are quite fragile and cannot be used for hunting. Over time, they can twist and potentially puncture the animal’s skull.
Male Babirusas prefer a solitary lifestyle, while females tend to be more social. In the wild, a group of female Babirusas can number up to nearly 100 individuals.
Babirusas are currently listed as endangered due to habitat loss and intense hunting by humans. They are strictly protected by the Indonesian government, and hunting or harming Babirusas is illegal.
