Tayassu

Tayassu 

(peccaries), a genus of nonruminant artiodactyl mammals of the family Suidae. Some zoologists classify the mammals into a separate family. The body length is 75–100 cm, the height is 44–57 cm, and the weight is 16–30 kg. Peccaries superficially resemble small pigs. However, they have a lighter build, thin legs, a short tail, a two-chambered stomach, two pairs of teats, and tridactyl hind legs. A gland on the back produces a musky secretion. There are two species: the collared peccary (T. tajacu) and the white-lipped peccary (T. albirostris). Peccaries are found in South and Central America, living in various habitats—from dry steppes to tropical rain forests. They live in small herds and feed on grasses, the roots and fruits of plants, and small animals. The females bear one or two young. Peccaries are hunted for their meat and fur.