Do Javelinas Eat Tomato Plants?

Javelinas are pig-like animals that are commonly found in the southwestern part of the United States. They can be found in deserts, grasslands, and even suburban neighborhoods. Javelinas are known to eat a wide variety of plants, but do they eat tomato plants?

What are Javelinas?

Javelinas, also known as collared peccaries, are medium-sized mammal that are a member of the pig family. They have a distinctive appearance with a stocky body, short legs, and a bristly coat of fur. Javelinas are social animals that live in groups known as sounders. They are primarily active at night and are known to be omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals.

What is the Diet of a Javelina?

Javelinas have a varied diet that mostly consists of plants. They eat a lot of cacti, mesquite beans, and other desert plants. However, they are also known to eat fruits, seeds, and even small animals like insects and lizards. Javelinas are opportunistic feeders, meaning that they will eat whatever is available.

Do Javelinas Eat Tomato Plants?

Many gardeners wonder whether Javelinas will eat their tomato plants. While Javelinas are known to eat a wide variety of plants, they do not typically eat tomato plants. This is because tomato plants are part of the nightshade family, which contains toxins that make them unappealing to most animals.

However, it is important to note that Javelinas will eat anything if they are hungry enough. If food is scarce, Javelinas may resort to eating tomato plants or other plants that they would not normally eat. To prevent this from happening, gardeners should take steps to protect their plants.

How to Protect Your Plants from Javelinas?

If you want to protect your plants from Javelinas, there are several things you can do. One of the most effective ways to keep Javelinas away from your garden is to fence it in. Make sure your fence is at least 3-4 feet high and is buried at least 6 inches deep to prevent Javelinas from digging under it.

You can also try using natural repellents like predator urine or blood meal. These products can be found at most garden supply stores and are effective at deterring Javelinas. Another option is to plant crops that Javelinas don't like, such as garlic or onions.

Conclusion

Javelinas are omnivores that eat a wide variety of plants and animals. While they do not typically eat tomato plants, they may resort to doing so if food is scarce. Gardeners should take steps to protect their plants from Javelinas, such as fencing in their garden or using natural repellents. By taking these steps, you can keep your plants safe and ensure a bountiful harvest.