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This is the most widespread wild pig species in the world. Its range extends from Western Europe through the Far East to South East Asia. Nineteen subspecies are recognized. The subspecies S. c. affinis is restricted to Sri Lanka and South India.The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012).

Wild Boar is found throughout the island from the arid zone to the highest mountain areas of the country. I have observed them in Horton Plains National Park at an altitude of 2,200m as well as in the Palmyra Palm forests of the Mannar Island in the North-west. They are found in good numbers at Labugama-Kalatuwawa forest just outside Colombo as well.

In Wilpattu, Wild Boar can be seen throughout the park. I have observed large herds of about 40-50 animals at Panikkar Wila, Tala Wila as well as Kokkare Wila. While staying at the Tala Wila bungalow, during midday a few large herds came to water simultaneously and I counted around 70 animals.  The yellow-striped young can be seen throughout the year. This is an important prey species for the leopards and they often stalk and prey on piglets. On a few occasions I have observed a few Jungle Crows moving with herds of Wild Boar.