The Johannesburg Wildlife Vet has just taken a bush pig in that was found abandoned, they are treating the little guy and rehabilitating him
Bush pigs are not usually considered cute, they are strong, stocky pigs with coarse hair. They are large and can weigh around 60kgs. But as piglets, they are just the cutest.
Bush Pigs thrive in close proximity to human settlements. That is probably why this piglet was found so easily and saved. In the wild, they feed on plant roots, bulbs, tubers, fruits and insect larvae. Alone, this piglet would not have survived without its mother as he is still reliant on milk.
“This Bush pig (Potamochoerus larvatus) was found to be abandoned, and a member of the public took him to the Bird and Exotic Animal Hospital at Onderstepoort. Unable to reunite him with his family, this pig has been cared for by Sr Soné Louw, under the guidance of Dr Dorianne Elliot.
The Bush pig was subsequently transferred to us, and a suitable release site with a pre-release enclosure was found. While he still requires his special milk formula, this pig is well on his way to being wild and free.”
The Johannesburg Wildlife Vet has also had to work hard through “Januworry”. They are struggling financially. The vet treats indigenous animals free of charge and relies solely on the donations.
“Caring for wildlife, like this little Bush pig means not only ensuring their health and safety while they are in our care. Of equal importance is their health and safety during their transition period and post-release. These costs are exorbitant and we are currently struggling financially.”
They have a number of ways that people can help. They accept donations here or see their full wishlist here. An easy way to get involved is to also nominate them to win a share of 2.1 million with #MySchool21 competition. You can do so here.
Take a look at the cute bush piglet below.