Uganda Wildlife
Common Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus)
- Best Months
- Jan, Feb, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Dec
Common warthogs are one of the most reliable daytime sightings on any Uganda safari. They kneel on calloused front knees to graze close to the ground, a posture tied to the facial growths. It derives its name from the protective fibrous facial warts found on its elongated snout, which are notably larger in males. This wild pig features a sparsely haired, slate-grey body with a prominent mane extending down its spine, and it is equipped with two pairs of razor-sharp, curved ivory tusks used for defense and digging.
Quick to bolt, tail held straight up like an aerial when startled, but just as quick to settle back into grazing once the perceived threat passes.
Last updated October 23, 2026
· Written by Enoch, Huko Safaris
5.0average traveler rating
Local expert: Enoch
Best Months to See Common Warthog
From our team
Common Warthog
Habituated warthogs spend their days mowing the lawns around the visitor center and display zero fear of vehicles. If you get lucky on a game drive, you can watch them scramble into old aardvark burrows backwards to keep their tusks facing out against predators. It is common to see warthogs lying completely still while banded mongooses pick ticks and parasites off their skin.
— Enoch, Huko Safaris