PIGS

Now it’s time to meet our playful porcine pals – the pigs!

These intelligent and curious creatures have held a special place in the story of humankind for millennia, probably dating back to the domestication of wild boars some 10,000 years ago in modern-day Turkey and China. Today, over 200 breeds of pigs can be found around the world, each with its unique set of characteristics and traits.

However, most breeds share some common physical features which make these adorable animals easily identifiable. These medium-sized mammals have a stout stature and are known for their round bodies, short legs, distinctive snouts, and intelligent and expressive eyes. They typically have coarse bristle-like hair, with coloration varying from pink to dark brown or black.

Despite being misrepresented as ignorant or arrogant in modern culture, nothing could be further from the truth. Pigs are highly intelligent critters, often ranked among the smartest domesticated animals. They can learn tricks, solve puzzles, and adapt to new environments with ease. They are extremely social, clever and curious creatures that can form strong bonds with humans and other pigs, often displaying playfulness and affection in their interactions.

Male pigs (known as boars if intact or barrows if neutered) typically weigh around 300 to 350 kilograms, while female pigs are slightly lighter at 250 to 300 kilograms. Females who have not yet had babies are called ‘gilts’, while mumma pigs are referred to as ‘sows’. They are highly efficient breeders, able to fall pregnant every 21 days if not lactating. A piggy pregnancy typically lasts for 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days, after which time she’ll give birth to her piglet. The average lifespan of a domesticated pig can range from 10 to 15 years. However, pigs raised for meat production tend to have shorter lifespans, typically reaching market weight in less than two years. Their diet varies with age and purpose, but generally includes a combination of grains, vegetables and protein sources.

These days, pigs are often raised for meat production, with pork, bacon and ham in high demand. The hair on a pig is used to make (expensive) paint brushes, known as hogs hair or hogs bristle brushes. Pig’s exceptional sense of smell, comparable with that of a dog, ideally equips them for jobs like truffle-hunting, while their lovable nature makes them popular pets. They even play an important role in medical research, with pig organs being used in a medical procedure known as xenotransplantation. This involves the transplantation of organs, tissues, or cells from one species, such as pigs, into humans. Pigs are often used because their organs are anatomically similar in size and function to human organs.

While you’re here at White Ridge Farm, take some time to play with our clever and curious pigs. Take a seat and explore the varied textures of our cute-as-a-button piglets. Run your hand over their wiry coats, and tickle their smooth tummies.