Red River Hog

Red River Hog

Range: Western and central Africa south of the Sahara

Habitat: Thickets, forests, savannas and swamps

Lifespan: About 20 years

Gestation: 120-127 days

Offspring: 1 to 8, usually 3 to 4

Size: Length, 3-5 feet; height, 1.5-2.5 feet; weight, 100 to 285 pounds

Diet: Grasses, water plants, roots, bulbs, fruit, carrion

Characteristics: The red river hog has a long, white crest of hair that runs down its back. This hair stands on end when the animal is excited or alarmed. The animal's red coat is long and bristly with black and white markings on the head, including a white eye ring and long ear tassels. It has short, sturdy legs, a long snout and short, sharp tusks. During daylight, it hides in dense forests.

Threats: While the red river hog's main predators are humans, leopard, lion, spotted hyena and python, their numbers may be increasing.