What are the Monkey Looking Things in Arizona?
The “monkey looking things” in Arizona are most likely Javelinas (Pecari tajacu), also known as collared peccaries. These pig-like mammals are often mistaken for monkeys due to their social behavior, unique appearance, and the habitat they occupy, leading to the common question: What are the monkey looking things in Arizona?
The Identity of the “Monkey Looking Things”
While Arizona is home to a variety of wildlife, the creatures most often mistaken for monkeys are actually Javelinas, or collared peccaries. These animals are native to the Americas and are quite common throughout the Southwestern United States, including Arizona. Their presence in urban and suburban areas contributes to the frequent encounters and the resulting confusion.
Why the Confusion?
Several factors contribute to people mistaking Javelinas for monkeys:
- Appearance: Javelinas possess a stout, pig-like body with a somewhat elongated snout. This unusual combination, coupled with their coarse, bristly hair, can lead to misidentification, especially when seen from a distance or in poor lighting.
- Social Behavior: Javelinas are highly social animals, often living in herds ranging from a few individuals to over 20. Their group dynamics, vocalizations, and active movements might remind observers of monkey troops.
- Habitat Overlap: Javelinas are adaptable and can thrive in various environments, including desert scrublands, grasslands, and even urban areas. This brings them into closer proximity with humans, increasing the likelihood of sightings and misinterpretations.
- Lack of Familiarity: Many people simply aren’t familiar with Javelinas. They may assume that any medium-sized, social animal with unusual features must be some kind of primate.
- Urban Legends and Misinformation: Sometimes, inaccurate information spreads through word of mouth or online, further fueling the “monkey” misconception.
Characteristics of Javelinas (Collared Peccaries)
Understanding the key characteristics of Javelinas can help distinguish them from monkeys and other animals.
- Physical Features:
- Average weight: 35-60 pounds
- Height: About 2 feet at the shoulder
- Color: Grayish-brown coat with a white “collar” around the neck
- Distinctive scent glands: Located on their back, used for marking territory and recognizing herd members
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on cacti, roots, tubers, fruits, seeds, and insects.
- Behavior: Highly social, diurnal (active during the day) but may become nocturnal in warmer months. They have poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell.
- Habitat: Primarily found in desert scrub, grasslands, and woodlands in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central and South America.
What to do if you Encounter Javelinas
While Javelinas are generally not aggressive towards humans, it’s important to exercise caution when encountering them.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Avoid approaching or feeding Javelinas.
- Do Not Feed Them: Feeding Javelinas can make them dependent on humans and cause them to lose their natural fear of people, leading to potential conflicts.
- Protect Your Pets: Keep pets on a leash and away from Javelinas.
- Secure Food Sources: Store pet food, birdseed, and trash in secure containers to prevent attracting Javelinas to your property.
- Make Noise: If Javelinas approach your property, make loud noises to scare them away.
- Report Aggressive Behavior: If you encounter Javelinas exhibiting aggressive behavior, such as charging or biting, report it to your local wildlife agency.
Distinguishing Javelinas from other Arizona Wildlife
While Javelinas are most often mistaken for monkeys, it’s worth noting that Arizona is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Here is a quick comparison to help differentiate:
| Animal | Key Characteristics | Habitat |
|---|---|---|
| —————- | ————————————————————————————————————- | —————————————– |
| Javelina | Pig-like appearance, collared neck, social behavior, strong odor. | Desert scrub, grasslands, woodlands |
| Monkeys | (Not native to Arizona) Prehensile tails, opposable thumbs, arboreal (tree-dwelling). | (Tropical forests – not applicable to AZ) |
| Coyotes | Dog-like appearance, slender build, pointed ears, bushy tail. | Varied; deserts, grasslands, forests |
| Bobcats | Cat-like appearance, short tail, spotted coat, tufted ears. | Forests, deserts, mountains |
Why Misidentification Matters
Understanding the true identity of these animals is crucial for conservation efforts and ensuring harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. Misinformation can lead to unnecessary fear, inappropriate responses, and potentially harmful interactions. Recognizing the “monkey looking things” as Javelinas helps promote responsible wildlife management and fosters a greater appreciation for the unique biodiversity of Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there really monkeys in Arizona?
No, monkeys are not native to Arizona. While there might be instances of escaped exotic pets, established wild monkey populations do not exist in the state. The animals most often mistaken for monkeys are Javelinas.
What is the scientific name for a Javelina?
The scientific name for a Javelina is Pecari tajacu. This name helps scientists and researchers worldwide communicate clearly about this particular species.
Do Javelinas pose a threat to humans?
Javelinas are generally not aggressive towards humans, but they can become defensive if they feel threatened. It’s important to keep a safe distance and avoid approaching or feeding them.
What should I do if a Javelina approaches my pet?
Keep your pet on a leash and away from the Javelina. If the Javelina becomes aggressive, use noise to scare it away and protect your pet. Report aggressive encounters to local wildlife authorities.
What do Javelinas eat in Arizona?
Javelinas are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They primarily feed on cacti, especially prickly pear, as well as roots, tubers, fruits, seeds, and insects. They are well-adapted to survive in the harsh desert environment.
Are Javelinas considered pests?
Javelinas can sometimes cause damage to gardens and landscapes when foraging for food. Proper fencing and securing potential food sources can help minimize these issues. While considered a nuisance by some, they are a native species and play a role in the ecosystem.
How can I prevent Javelinas from entering my yard?
Secure your property with fencing, especially around gardens and areas where you store food. Remove potential food sources, such as fallen fruit or pet food. Motion-activated sprinklers can also deter Javelinas.
What is the lifespan of a Javelina?
In the wild, Javelinas typically live for 8 to 10 years. In captivity, they can live longer, sometimes exceeding 15 years.
Are Javelinas related to pigs?
Yes, Javelinas are related to pigs, but they belong to a different family. Javelinas are part of the Tayassuidae family, while pigs are part of the Suidae family. Although similar in appearance, they have distinct anatomical and behavioral differences.
Do Javelinas have any natural predators in Arizona?
Javelinas are preyed upon by various predators, including coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, and occasionally eagles. The presence of these predators helps to regulate Javelina populations.
Are Javelinas protected in Arizona?
Javelinas are classified as game animals in Arizona, and hunting regulations are in place to manage their populations. It’s important to consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department for specific hunting seasons and license requirements.
Where is the best place to see Javelinas in Arizona?
Javelinas can be seen throughout much of Arizona, particularly in desert and grassland habitats. Areas like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and certain state parks offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, but remember to observe them from a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.