- Lifespan
- 8–10 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity
- Size & Weight
- Body length 90–180 cm; shoulder height 55–110 cm; weight 50–100 kg (females smaller than males)
- Habitat
- Broadleaf and mixed woodlands with dense undergrowth, also found in scrubland, agricultural areas, and wetland margins.
- UK Distribution
- Feral populations established in south-central England (particularly the Weald of Kent and Sussex), with smaller populations in the Forest of Dean and other locations; not native to modern Britain but expanding range.
- Diet
- Omnivorous; feeds on roots, tubers, fallen acorns and beechnuts, fungi, insects, earthworms, carrion, and occasionally small vertebrates and bird eggs.
- Prey
- Earthworms, insect larvae, small amphibians, bird eggs, and carrion
- Predators
- Adults have few natural predators in the UK; young piglets may be taken by foxes, badgers, and golden eagles where present
- Mating Season
- November to January
- Breeding
- Gestation period 115–120 days; litter size 4–8 piglets born March to April; females typically breed once per year; piglets weaned at 3–4 months.
- Behaviour
- Highly social, living in groups called sounders led by dominant females. Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, spending much time foraging and rooting in soil. Males are solitary outside breeding season and highly aggressive.