Keepers at London Zoo noticed the pig was in discomfort due to an infection in his tusks
One of the world’s most peculiar-looking pigs has undergone a dental procedure at London Zoo. Ubi the babirusa has received two fillings, with his CT scan shared by vets following a triumphant trip to the dentist.
Babirusas originate from Indonesia where, thanks to their gnarled tusks – which are essentially teeth that grow through their snouts and curl backwards – and their hairless bodies, they are occasionally referred to as “demon pigs”, and have even been saddled with the unfortunate moniker of ‘world’s ugliest pigs’.
It was two of these ‘tusks’ that keepers noticed were causing the zoo’s male pig Ubi considerable discomfort, prompting them to summon the vets for a check-up. Following a CT scan and veterinary examination, it was revealed that two of Ubi’s tusks had developed a minor infection.
London Zoo vet Stefan Saverimuttu explained: “Babirusas’ tusks are actually canine teeth which can reach up to 40cm in length and grow through their skin. Following Ubi’s CT scan, we were able to see that two of Ubi’s tusks had a minor infection. These tusks had to be treated so they didn’t end up causing any discomfort.”
A veterinary dental specialist was brought in to assist Ubi and, using the CT scan as a reference, Ubi’s tusks were trimmed back to the site of infection before being sealed with resin – the equivalent of receiving a filling.
Stefan added: “Ubi was a star patient – he’s made a brilliant recovery, and we’re confident that his tusks shouldn’t cause him any further issues.”
“The sweet-tempered pig was soon back to his soppy self,” the zoo confirmed.
According to the zoo, Babirusa pigs are endangered, with around 10,000 of the creatures living in the wild. Scientists believe Babirusas are one of the oldest members of the pig family.
It’s not known why exactly the pigs have tusks, but some scientists believe that they may be used to display to mates. The surprisingly fragile tusks keep growing throughout their lives, and can even grow through the skull if not broken down.
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