Desert warthogs and common warthogs can be distinguished by several physical and behavioral characteristics:

1. Geographical Range: Desert warthogs (Phacochoerus aethiopicus) are typically found in arid regions of eastern Africa, particularly in parts of Kenya and Somalia. In contrast, common warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus) have a wider range across sub-Saharan Africa.

2. Physical Appearance:

   • Facial Features: Desert warthogs tend to have a more elongated face and smaller, less prominent warts compared to common warthogs. The warts on desert warthogs are generally less pronounced.
   • Ears: Desert warthogs have longer, more pointed ears compared to the common warthog's smaller, rounder ears.
   • Body Size: While both species are similar in size, desert warthogs may appear slightly more slender due to their adaptation to arid environments.

3. Tusks:

   • Desert warthogs typically have straighter and longer upper tusks, which are more adapted to their environment.
   • Common warthogs have more curved tusks, which are often larger and more robust.

4. Behavior:

   • Desert warthogs are more adapted to arid environments and may exhibit behaviors such as digging for water and food more frequently than common warthogs.
   • Common warthogs are often seen in more diverse habitats, including savannas and grasslands, and may have different social structures and behaviors.

5. Diet and Foraging: Both species are omnivorous, but desert warthogs may rely more heavily on roots and tubers due to the scarcity of food in their environment.

By examining these differences, one can distinguish between desert warthogs and common warthogs in the wild.