Warthogs are highly social, intelligent African wild pigs whose welfare in zoo settings depends on opportunities to root, forage, and maintain complex social relationships within appropriate family structures.
Warthog welfare in captivity is generally more achievable than for specialist species, given their behavioural flexibility. However, social group composition matters: females with offspring have different space and social requirements from bachelor male groups, and mixing incompatible individuals generates chronic aggression. Rooting motivation is strong and persistent; enclosures without loose substrate or planted areas fail to engage this fundamental behaviour. Wallowing is thermoregulatory and integumentary — warthogs require wet mud areas in warm conditions. Burrow structures significantly reduce stress by providing retreat from social pressure and novel stimuli. When well-managed, warthogs can demonstrate positive welfare through exploratory behaviour, play, and affiliative social interactions that are engaging for visitors and rewarding for the animals.