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FLAT-HEADED PECCARY
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Platygonus compressus

BEHAVIOR

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Numerous sites across North America have preserved expansive social behavior in the flat-headed peccary, suggesting these animals foraged in large herds. Caves across the Midwest US preserve numerous collections of Platygonus, with remains of up to 650 individuals being recovered.

DIET

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As a mixed feeder, Platygonus exhibits an opportunistic diet across both open and closed environments over time. However, the ungulate showcases a preference towards grittier vegetation such as grass, forbs, and cacti; similar to its closest living relative: the Chacoan peccary.

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HABITAT

With a broad range stretching from the Yukon to Florida, this highly adaptable peccary roamed various environments. However, due to increased population density associated with periglacial & interglacial habitats, Platygonus likely sought out temperate shrubland, mixed woodland & open prairies.

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STATS
ESTIMATED MASS:  30 kg
HEIGHT AT SHOULDER:  75 cm
STRATEGY:  Mixed Feeder
HABITAT:  Woodland & Prairie

 

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