You may not be aware, but it is important to understand pig behaviour and their needs when constructing a pig pen. Dr Dorothea Mostert, managing partner at CS Vet, shares what the essentials are for pig housing, temperature considerations, and more.
“It’s about creating a space that allows them to express their natural behaviours and thrive. This includes providing ample space, access to essentials like food and water, and proper ventilation to ensure their health and well-being,” Mostert explains.
Temperature control is key
She adds that farrowing facilities, which house pregnant sows and their piglets, require special attention. These dedicated spaces, known as farrowing houses, need to be comfortable for both the mother and her newborns.
Pigs do well between 19 and 24 degrees Celsius and can comfortably maintain their growth and production at slightly higher and slightly lower temperatures, Mostert explains. “So opening up those houses to allow fresh air in will help that quite a bit,” she says.
Fully controlled buildings use sensors to adjust temperature and humidity. Less sophisticated methods include using thermometers to monitor temperature fluctuations and heaters for piglets who need extra warmth. Humidity is generally only a concern in these controlled buildings, she explains.
In this episode, she also discusses:
- Pig biosecurity;
- Space requirements for building a pig pen; and more.
Catching up with this week’s #SoilSista
This episode also features a Corteva Agriscience #SoilSista. From a shared farming legacy with her father to taking charge after a heart-breaking personal loss, the story Tiisetso Lebuso showcases unwavering commitment amidst daunting challenges.
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ALSO READ: Ensure quality and safety with Global GAP certification
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