PHOENIX — They aren't your regular porch pirates.
12News Anchor Mark Curtis was surprised to walk out of his home and find a family of javelinas feasting on the pumpkins he put on his porch.
"We had just put out our pumpkins out ahead of Halloween and I was helping our daughter load our grandson into the car and as we walked out of our front door, this is what greeted us. Since they had babies, we backed off and let them finish their dinner!" Curtis said.
Pumpkins are generally safe for animals to eat, according to Rau Animal Hospital. They contain nutrients like vitamins A, B, C and E, fiber and their seeds are packed full of protein. They do not contain anything inherently harmful to animals or people.
Wildlife officials suggest not leaving out pumpkins in the Valley due to the possibility of attracting wildlife.
If you need somewhere to dispose of your pumpkins after Halloween, many groups like the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center offer pumpkin 'recycling' programs that use donated unpainted pumpkins as food and enrichment for their animals.
Likewise, Better Piggies Rescue holds a yearly blanket and pumpkin drive to provide treats and bedding for the pigs and cows they're looking after.
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