ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes information on the behaviors and spatial ecology of wild pigs in North America. It focuses on free-ranging pigs and provides relevant research on captive animals and from other wild pig populations worldwide, both native and non-native, to provide a thorough synthesis of the primary topics concerning behaviors and the spatial ecology of wild pigs. Territoriality has been observed in several different contexts for wild pigs, however this remains a topic in need of further inquiry. Males are often solitary and grapple with other males for access to resources and mating opportunities. Wild pig diets tend to be low in energy, high in fiber, and seasonally deficient in protein. To offset protein deficiency, wild pigs may rely heavily on animal matter. Wallowing, where an individual will cover its body in mud, is a common behavior exhibited by wild pigs. The primary function of this behavior is to reduce body temperature and protect against potentially harmful insects and parasites.
