Babirusa
at Audubon Zoo
Find Me with the App | Visit Me at the Zoo
Meet the Babirusa
Babirusa Behavior
The North Sulawesi babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis), known as "babi-rusa" in Indonesia, which translates to “pig-deer,” is a social species that lives in groups. It is one of three babirusa species found in Indonesia.
Male babirusas possess impressive tusks that grow upward through their snouts, curling toward their heads. While the exact purpose of these tusks remains a mystery, folklore suggests they might be used for hanging from branches to sleep. In reality, the tusks are likely more for display and may play a role in male combat.
Babirusas are also known for their playful behavior, often standing on their hind legs to box with one another.
Babirusa Eating Habits
As omnivores, babirusas have a diverse diet that includes fruits, roots, leaves, and vegetables, as well as small mammals, birds, crustaceans, and insects. At Audubon, our babirusas particularly enjoy the sustainable seafood sourced from Louisiana!
Babirusa Conservation Efforts
Audubon participates in the Babirusa Global Species Management Plan (GSMP) as part of the Action Indonesia program. This initiative aims to promote healthy populations of four endemic Indonesian species by employing a one plan approach that maintains robust in situ and ex situ populations.
The babirusas under human care serve as ambassadors for their species, while the program also focuses on the anoa, banteng, and Sumatran tiger. Collaboration among the Indonesian government, zoos, and conservation organizations worldwide is essential for ensuring these remarkable creatures thrive in their native habitats and in managed care.
Animal Facts
North Sulawesi babirusas are classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, with populations declining primarily due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. Adult babirusas typically weigh between 200 and 300 pounds and stand about 3 feet tall at the shoulder. They have a distinctively long snout and long, slender legs, enabling them to navigate their forested habitats effectively.
Range
North Sulawesi babirusas are found across much of Sulawesi, as well as on the neighboring islands of Muna, Buton, and Lembeh. The hairy babirusa (B. babyrousa) inhabits Buru and the Sula Islands and is also classified as Vulnerable, facing similar threats to its population. The Togian Island babirusa (B. togeanensis) is endemic to the Togian Islands and is classified as Endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and illegal logging.
______________________________________
