Red River Hog

Potamochoerus porcus

The red river hog, Potamochoerus porcus, is a wild forest pig from West and Central Africa, especially rainforests, swamp edges, gallery forests, and thickets near water. It is easy to recognize by its chestnut-red coat, white facial markings, long ear tassels, and pale mane along the back. Social groups, or sounders, root through soil and leaf litter for tubers, fallen fruit, seeds, insects, eggs, carrion, and small animals, and they may raid crops along forest margins.

Zoos and sanctuaries keep red river hogs for African forest exhibits, not as domestic pig breeds. Strong fencing, shift pens, mud wallows, shade, heated shelter in cool climates, and durable substrates are basic management needs for an animal that digs and tests barriers. Diets usually combine high-fiber produce, browse, hay or pellets, and controlled starches to prevent obesity. Keepers also plan for tusk and hoof care, safe introductions, and protected feeding areas, since adult boars can be powerful and assertive during breeding or disputes.