The white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) is a classic example of an ecological engineer. They change the forest floor by trampling in huge herds of 20-300 individuals, a unique phenomenon in the Amazon. The changes they illicit in the forest create new niches that help maintain the variety of wildlife, including plants, amphibians, and reptiles, while dispersing seeds throughout the landscape. Additionally, white-lipped peccaries are important prey for jaguars, and other larger animals, including humans!
Due to the impressive size of white-lipped peccary herds, this species needs an extensive ecosystem to support them. This makes them particularly vulnerable to deforestation and habitat fragmentation. Our landscape work considers these necessities whilst supporting the planning of conservation actions.
Top photo: Walter H. Wust