Animal Facts
Male babirusa have amazing tusks that grow up through the nose, curling toward his head. The exact purpose of these tusks is unknown. Folklore once believed that the tusks were for hanging from branches to sleep. They seem to be more for display and have some use in fighting between males. Babirusa will also stand up on hind legs and box with each other.
Range
North Sulawesi babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis) are found across much of Sulawesi as well as Muna, Buton, and Lembeh. They are classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN redlist and the population is decreasing due mostly to habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Hairy babirusa (B. babyrousa) are found on Buru and the Sula islands. They are also classified as Vulnerable and are decreasing due mostly to habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Togian Island babirusa (B. togeanensis) as the name suggests are found on the Togian Islands. They are classified as Endangered by IUCN and are also decreasing. This is due mostly to habitat loss and illegal logging.
Lives at Audubon Zoo
