Pig vs. Boar: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 28, 2023
Pigs are domesticated animals raised for meat and other products, while boars are wild, undomesticated pigs, often larger and more aggressive.
Key Differences
A pig is a domesticated animal that has been bred for various human purposes, such as for food or as a pet. On the other hand, a boar refers to a wild male pig, native to various regions across the world. While pigs are often associated with farming and agricultural environments, boars have a reputation for roaming forests and wild terrains. The differences between the two lie not only in their habitats but also in their behavior, physical characteristics, and relationships with humans.
The physical characteristics of a pig are often influenced by selective breeding, yielding a variety of sizes, colors, and temperaments. Boars, conversely, exhibit features honed by natural selection, such as longer and sharper tusks and a more muscular build. Pigs often have a more docile and placid demeanor, as they are reared in controlled settings. Boars, being wild, tend to be more aggressive and can pose a threat if confronted or cornered.
Pigs are a crucial component of human agriculture, providing a substantial portion of the world's meat supply, particularly in the form of pork. Boars, however, are often regarded as pests in many regions because they can damage crops, pose vehicular hazards, or compete with local fauna for resources. Though both pigs and boars belong to the same animal family, their relationship with humans differs significantly, with one being nurtured for its benefits and the other often being controlled to mitigate its challenges.
Dietary habits of pigs are largely shaped by their domestication. Pigs, when raised on farms, are usually provided with a set diet that includes grains, vegetables, and commercial feeds. Boars, living in the wild, have a more varied diet consisting of roots, fruits, small animals, and even insects. Both pigs and boars are omnivorous, but the availability and type of food they consume differ substantially due to their distinct environments.
When it comes to reproduction, domesticated pigs are often managed to ensure optimal breeding conditions and results. Boars, in their natural habitat, compete with other males for mating rights, leading to displays of dominance and sometimes violent encounters. This difference in mating behaviors between pigs and boars is a reflection of the contrast between controlled domestic settings and the unpredictability of the wild.
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Comparison Chart
Domestication
Domesticated
Wild, undomesticated
Usage
Raised for meat, products, sometimes pets
Often hunted, less commonly domesticated
Temperament
Generally docile and sociable
More aggressive and elusive
Physical Features
Smaller, less hair
Larger, thicker coat, prominent tusks
Relationship to Humans
Integral to agriculture and food production
Often considered a nuisance or invasive
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Pig and Boar Definitions
Pig
A pig is a domesticated animal raised for meat.
The farmer fed the pigs before sunrise.
Boar
Symbolizes fierceness or bravery.
The warrior had a boar emblem on his shield.
Pig
Informally, "pig" can be an insult for a greedy or dirty person.
He was called a pig for eating all the cake.
Boar
A boar is a wild, undomesticated pig.
A boar was spotted roaming in the forest.
Pig
In finance, a "pig" is an investor who is reckless.
He was a pig in the stock market and lost everything.
Boar
Specifically, a mature male pig.
The boar in the pen was the largest of all.
Pig
Slang for police officers, often used derogatorily.
Graffiti referred to the officers as pigs.
Boar
A target animal in hunting.
They went hunting for boar in the wilderness.
Pig
Used to describe gluttonous behavior.
She called her brother a pig for hogging the snacks.
Boar
Known for aggressive behavior.
The boar charged aggressively at the intruder.
Pig
Any of various mammals of the family Suidae, having short legs, hooves with two weight-bearing toes, bristly hair, and a cartilaginous snout used for digging, including the domesticated hog (Sus scrofa subsp. domestica syn. S. domesticus) and wild species such as the bushpig.
Boar
The wild boar.
FAQs
What is a boar?
A boar is a wild, undomesticated pig, often larger and more aggressive.
What's the lifespan of a pig?
Domestic pigs can live 15-20 years, but often have shorter lives due to farming practices.
Are all boars male?
While boar refers to any wild pig, it specifically denotes a mature male.
Can pigs be pets?
Yes, some breeds of pigs are kept as pets.
Why are boars considered invasive?
Boars can be invasive due to their destructive feeding habits and rapid reproduction.
What habitats do boars prefer?
Boars are adaptable and can live in forests, grasslands, and even suburban areas.
How fast can boars run?
Boars can run up to 30 mph (48 km/h).
Do boars live in groups?
Boars are generally solitary, but females (sows) and young may live in groups.
Can pigs swim?
Yes, pigs are capable swimmers.
How do pigs communicate?
Pigs communicate through a variety of grunts, squeals, and body language.
What is a group of pigs called?
A group of pigs is called a herd.
Do boars have any natural predators?
In the wild, boars are preyed upon by large predators like wolves, tigers, and leopards.
Are boars dangerous?
Boars can be aggressive and are considered dangerous, especially when provoked.
What is a pig?
A pig is a domesticated animal raised for meat, products, and sometimes as a pet.
What products come from pigs?
Pork, bacon, and ham are common products from pigs, along with leather and bristles.
Do boars have tusks?
Yes, boars typically have prominent tusks.
Are boars hunted?
Yes, boars are often hunted for sport and to control their population.
What do pigs eat?
Pigs are omnivores and eat a variety of grains, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
Are there different breeds of pigs?
Yes, there are numerous breeds of pigs, each with unique characteristics.
Can pigs be trained?
Pigs are intelligent and can be trained for various tasks and tricks.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
