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KEEP YOUR DISTANCE! Javelina found in Central Phoenix

Posted at 10:57 AM, Jun 27, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-27 18:54:41-04

PHOENIX — Keep your eyes peeled, Central Phoenix! Billie Speece recently spotted this massive javelina at Encanto Park wandering around the outside of Enchanted Island Amusement Park.

Watch the video to see this massive creature graze in Encanto Park!

If you ever find yourself close to a javelina, back away slowly.

According to Arizona Game and Fish, though instances of the animals biting humans are uncommon, they can occur. In areas where javelina can get food from people -- either from residents intentionally feeding the animals, or unintentionally leaving food accessible -- the javelina can lose their fear of people, increasing the chance for conflict.

Game and Fish representatives say the animals can also become confrontational with dogs, as they resemble a natural predator of javelina young -- coyotes. They warn that as with all wildlife, it's best to enjoy javelina at a distance.

For more information on javelina in Arizona, visit the Game and Fish Department website.