Peccaries are indeed native to the Americas. They are part of the family Tayassuidae, which consists of pig-like animals. Unlike pigs, however, they are not considered true pigs but are classified in a separate family.
The three species of peccaries that are native to the Americas are the collared peccary, also known as the javelina (Pecari tajacu), the white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari), and the Chacoan peccary (Catagonus wagneri). These species are found in different regions of the Americas and have slightly different characteristics and behaviors.
Speaking from personal experience, I have encountered collared peccaries during my travels in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. These small, pig-like animals are known for their distinctive collar of hair around their necks, hence their common name. They have a dark grayish-brown coat and are known for their strong odor, which is used for communication within their social groups.
The white-lipped peccary, on the other hand, is found in Central and South America. As its name suggests, it has a white line of hair running from the corner of its mouth to its cheek, giving it a unique appearance. This species tends to live in large herds and is known for its aggressive behavior if threatened or cornered.
The Chacoan peccary is the least known of the three species and is found in the Gran Chaco region of South America, which includes parts of Paraguay, Bolivia, and Argentina. This species is larger than the other two and has a shaggy, reddish-brown coat. It is considered endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.
It is worth mentioning that the Old World peccaries, which were native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, are now extinct. This means that the peccaries we see today are unique to the Americas.
Peccaries are indeed native to the Americas, with three species found in different regions. They are distinct from true pigs and have their own family classification. Each species has its own characteristics and behaviors, making them fascinating animals to study and encounter in the wild.