The collared peccary (Dicotyles tajacu) is found in North, Central, and South America. They are commonly called javelina, saíno, taitetu, or báquiro. The species is also known as the musk hog and in Trinidad, it is known as quenk.

Although somewhat related to true Old World pigs, and frequently referred to one, this species and the other peccaries are no longer classified in the pig family.

The collared peccary stands around 20–24 inches tall at the shoulder and is about 3 feet to just shy of 5 feet long. It weighs between 35 and 60 pounds. The collared peccary has small tusks that point downward when the animal is upright. It has slender legs with a robust or stocky body. The tail is often hidden in its coarse fur.

Its main predators in the Amazon are jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and caimans.

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you ever touch a wild animal. This one, however, has been "habituated". Habituated means the animal is used to being around humans so is less likely to attack. We followed the directions of our guide at all times and he assured us it was OK to touch the animal.

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