Pigs, also known as swine, are one of the most versatile and widespread domesticated animals. They are found on farms worldwide and contribute significantly to the agricultural industry through meat production, leather, and other by-products. This article delves into the fascinating world of pigs as we discuss:
Pig or Swine - What is the Difference?
The terms "pig" and "swine" are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct meanings. "Swine" refers to all animals in the family Suidae, encompassing both wild and domestic pigs.
"Pig," on the other hand, commonly refers to the domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus), specifically when it is young and small in size.
In a broader sense, "pig" is also used colloquially to describe all swine.
What do Pigs Eat?
Pigs are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. Their diet primarily consists of grains, vegetables, and fruits, supplemented with protein sources such as soybean meal.
“Wild pigs consume primarily plant matter, but 40.4% of their stomach contents contain vertebrate prey, including 20 species of mammals,” according to the 2009 study by Wilcox, J., & Vuren, D.
In commercial farming, pigs are typically fed formulated feeds to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for growth and health. Pigs are recognized for their insatiable appetite and ability to adapt to a wide variety of food sources.
What are Pig Characteristics and Behavior?
Pigs are highly intelligent animals, often compared to dogs in terms of cognitive abilities. They have excellent memories, trainable to perform tasks, and even solve complex problems.
“Domestic pigs show signs of cognitive complexity and share traits with intelligent animals, but more noninvasive research is needed to fully understand their natural abilities,” according to the 2015 study by Marino, L., & Colvin, C.
Social by nature, pigs typically live in groups and establish a hierarchy within their community. They are also known for their strong sense of smell, which they use to forage for food.
“Pigs can re-establish social hierarchies within several days after mixing, with the most dominant pig appearing within a few hours after mixing and remaining stable,” according to the 2019 study by Tong, X., Shen, C., Chen, R., Gao, S., Liu, X., Schinckel, A., & Zhou, B.
“Pigs use their strong sense of smell to forage for food, and their oronasal sensing systems include odor, taste, and thermo-mechanical sensations,” according to the 2009 study by Roura, E., & Tedo, G.
Despite common misconceptions, pigs are clean animals, often designating specific areas for eating, sleeping, and defecating.
Scientific Classification, Origin, and Domestication
Pigs belong to the family Suidae, within the order Artiodactyla, which includes even-toed ungulates like cattle, deer, and giraffes.
The domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) is a subspecies of the Eurasian Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), which was first domesticated around 9,000 years ago in the Middle East and China
“The domestic pig originated from Eurasian wild boar, with independent domestication occurring 9,000 years ago and hybrid origins of some major "European" pig breeds,” according to the 2000 study by Giuffra, E., Kijas, J., A., Carlborg, Ö., Jeon, J., & Andersson, L.
Pigs were used by settled farming communities due to the challenges of herding. They have become vital to economies around the world, with New Guinea having a strong "pig culture" akin to African cattle cultures.
Over millennia, pigs have been selectively bred for various traits, leading to the development of numerous breeds adapted to different climates, purposes, and human needs.
What are the Different Types of Pigs?
There are three basic types of domestic pigs based on their primary use: large-framed lard types, smaller bacon types, and pork types. Each type has distinct characteristics that make them suitable for their specific purpose.
Lard-type: thick fat layer and usually weighs at least 100 kg (220 pounds)
Lard pigs are specifically bred for their ability to produce a high amount of body fat, which is rendered into lard. Historically, lard was a valuable commodity used in cooking, baking, and as an industrial lubricant. Lard pigs have a higher fat-to-muscle ratio, with a thick layer of fat under their skin. These pigs were particularly popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries before vegetable oils became more common.
Bacon-type: carcasses of about 70 kg (150 pounds)
Bacon pigs are bred for their ability to produce long, lean cuts of meat, particularly from the belly and sides, which are ideal for making bacon. These pigs have a higher proportion of muscle compared to lard pigs, with less overall body fat. Bacon pigs are typically longer-bodied to maximize the amount of bacon produced. The focus is on producing flavorful, tender meat with enough fat to ensure the bacon is not too dry.
Meat-type (Pork): carcasses averaging around 45 kg (100 pounds)
Pigs bred for meat production, often referred to as pork pigs, are primarily raised to produce high-quality, lean pork. These pigs are selected for their ability to grow quickly and efficiently, producing tender and flavorful meat. They have a balanced muscle-to-fat ratio, making them ideal for producing various pork cuts such as chops, roasts, and tenderloins. Pork pigs are typically more muscular and have less body fat compared to other types.
Different Swine Breeds
The Largest Pig Breeds
Poland China
Origin: United States
Unique Characteristics: Known for its large size and ability to gain weight quickly.
Description: Black with white markings on the face and legs.
Color: Black with white patches
Average Weight: 700-900 lbs
Average Height: 2.5-3 feet
Average Length: 6-7 feet
Large White
Origin: England
Unique Characteristics: Known for its adaptability and excellent meat quality.
Description: Large, white pig with erect ears.
Color: White
Average Weight: 600-800 lbs
Average Height: 2.5-3 feet
Average Length: 5.5-6.5 feet
Duroc
Origin: United States
Unique Characteristics: Renowned for its rapid growth and excellent marbling in the meat.
Description: Large, reddish-brown pig with drooping ears.
Color: Reddish-brown
Average Weight: 600-800 lbs
Average Height: 2.5-3 feet
Average Length: 5.5-6.5 feet
Landrace
Origin: Denmark
Unique Characteristics: Known for its long body and high fertility.
Description: White pig with a long, lean body and large, floppy ears.
Color: White
Average Weight: 600-800 lbs
Average Height: 2.5-3 feet
Average Length: 5.5-6.5 feet
Yorkshire
Origin: England
Unique Characteristics: Most common pig breed in the U.S., known for its lean meat.
Description: Large, white pig with erect ears.
Color: White
Average Weight: 600-800 lbs
Average Height: 2.5-3 feet
Average Length: 5.5-6.5 feet
The Smallest Pig Breeds
American Mini Pig
Origin: United States
Unique Characteristics: Developed as a pet breed, known for its small size and friendly nature.
Description: Small, compact pig with various color patterns.
Color: Varies (spotted, solid, etc.)
Average Weight: 50-150 lbs
Average Height: 1-1.5 feet
Average Length: 2.5-3 feet
Juliana Pig
Origin: Europe
Unique Characteristics: Known as the "painted pig" due to its spotted coat.
Description: Small, slender pig with a distinct spotted pattern.
Color: Spotted (various colors)
Average Weight: 20-40 lbs
Average Height: 1-1.5 feet
Average Length: 2-3 feet
Göttingen Mini Pig
Origin: Germany
Unique Characteristics: Developed for medical research, known for its small size and docility.
Description: Small, pink, or black pig with a compact body.
Color: Pink or black
Average Weight: 50-100 lbs
Average Height: 1-1.5 feet
Average Length: 2-3 feet
Kunekune
Origin: New Zealand
Unique Characteristics: Known for its friendly demeanor and small size.
Description: Small, round-bodied pig with a hairy coat and tassels under the chin.
Color: Various (black, brown, white, etc.)
Average Weight: 100-250 lbs
Average Height: 2-2.5 feet
Average Length: 3-4 feet
Vietnamese Pot-bellied Pig
Origin: Vietnam
Unique Characteristics: Popular as a pet, known for its potbelly and short legs.
Description: Small pig with a potbelly, short legs, and a wrinkled face.
Color: Black or spotted
Average Weight: 70-150 lbs
Average Height: 1-2 feet
Average Length: 3-4 feet
Table 1. List of Breeds of Swine according to OSU.
|
|
How to Take Care of a Pig?
Caring for pigs requires providing them with a balanced diet, clean water, and a comfortable living environment. Pigs must have ample space to move around as they are active animals.
Their living quarters must be well-ventilated, dry, and protected from extreme weather conditions. Regular health checks and vaccinations are crucial to prevent diseases. Keeping pigs in groups is essential to prevent loneliness and stress as they are social animals.
“Grouped pigs make less frequent feeder visits and have greater food intake and weight gain compared to individually housed pigs,” according to the 2000 study by Bornett, H., Morgan, C., Lawrence, A., & Mann, J.
Additionally, providing opportunities for pigs to engage in their natural behaviors such as rooting and foraging is vital for their well-being.
20 Interesting Facts About Pigs
Pigs have a highly developed sense of smell, often used to find truffles.
They are highly intelligent animals, capable of learning tasks and solving puzzles.
Pigs are social creatures and form close bonds with each other.
Despite popular belief, pigs are clean animals and do not soil their sleeping areas.
They communicate with each other through various vocalizations, including grunts and squeals.
Pigs run at speeds of up to 11 miles per hour.
They are excellent swimmers and enjoy bathing in water to cool off.
Pigs have a panoramic vision due to the positioning of their eyes.
Their digestive system is similar to that of humans, making them useful in medical research.
Pigs experience a range of emotions, including happiness, sadness, and fear.
They are capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors, a sign of self-awareness.
Pigs have a strong memory and remember locations for years.
They are omnivores and adapt to a wide variety of diets.
Pigs are used in search and rescue missions due to their strong sense of smell.
They have been domesticated for over 9,000 years.
Pigs suffer from sunburn, so they need shade or mud to protect their skin.
They are known to play with toys and enjoy social interactions.
Pigs have been trained to perform tricks, much like dogs.
In some cultures, pigs are considered symbols of wealth and prosperity.
Pigs have been used in art and literature for centuries, often representing abundance and fertility.
Comments