Those creatures are called Javalinas ("hav-a-LEE-nahs"). Yes, they look kind of pig-like, because they are distantly related, but they are really Collared Peccaries.They are native to the Americas; from Arizona south to Argentina.
So why do I have a photo of javalinas? Because last week at The Oasis Renewal Center, I had the pleasure of watching a large family of 12 javalinas walk through our yard! There were 2 babies (javalinets?) with the group, which were really cute. This photo was taken at 7 am on Saturday, from my bedroom window. These guys were strolling through the front yard on their way to their breakfast buffet - the yucca plants on the southern section of the property.
I happen to treasure these wildlife encounters. To me, it is a confirmation that God has chosen to share some of His marvelous creatures with us. Even if they wake me up at 7 am on a Saturday.
