Warthogs are quite closely related to domestic pigs, but present a much different appearance. As their name suggests, they have a large, flat head which is covered with “warts,” which are actually protective bumps. The hair on their bodies is fairly thin, but have thicker areas on the top of their heads and down the middle of their backs

Warthogs are grazing omnivores; their diet consists of grasses, plants, berries, insects, carrion and also use their snouts to dig for roots or bulbs. When startled or threatened, warthogs can be surprisingly fast, running at speeds of up to 30 miles an hour.

A warthog is identifiable by the two pairs of tusks protruding from the mouth and curving upwards. The lower pair, which is far shorter than the upper pair, becomes razor-sharp by rubbing against the upper pair every time the mouth is opened and closed. The tusks are used for digging, for combat with other hogs, and in defence against predators – the lower set can inflict severe wounds