Pigs

During this session the children learn all about pigs and piglets. They are able to get an up close look at the piglets and the sow or mother pig and even touch them if they so desire.

Mother pigs or sows are usually housed in what is called a farrowing crate. This protects the babies or piglets from being squished when the mother lays down. The red glow you see in the picture is a heat lamp which is used to keep the piglets warm.

Some facts about pigs:

The gestational period for a pig is 112-115 days
The average litter size is 8 -15 piglets and a sow can average 2.5 litters in one year
Piglets are usually weaned or taken away from their mothers at 4 to 6 weeks of age.
Pigs are unable to sweat. They wallow in mud to cool down.

Some more facts about pigs:

Pigs consume up to 20 litres of water a day and 5% of their body weight in food.
Lifespan of a Pig is 6 to 9 years.
A whole group of pigs is called a herd.
Pigs have 4 toes on each foot but only walk on 2 of them so they always look like they are walking on tip toes.