Investigation of distances covered by fattening pigs measured with VideoMotionTracker®
The investigation was carried out with altogether 144 pigs kept in groups of 6 or 12. Every pen was equipped with perforated floor. Water and the in-house compound feed with different elements depending on the fattening period were available ad libitum during the whole fattening period. At the beginning of each fattening period all pigs […]
Vocalisation of domestic pigs () as an indicator for their adaptation towards ambient temperatures
It was tested whether the vocalisation of pigs can be used to assess their adaptability to ambient temperatures. It was hypothesised that the proportion of high-frequency vocalisation, indicating discomfort, would increase with behavioural reactions to both low and high ambient temperatures and that this relationship is modified by the weight of pigs. In addition, the […]
Fresh wood reduces tail and ear biting and increases exploratory behaviour in finishing pigs
Chewing and rooting are high behavioural priorities in pigs. Lack of suitable materials can lead to abnormal behaviours such as tail and ear biting. In commercial farming, slatted floors limit the use of straw, and various point-source objects have therefore been developed. The crucial challenge is to design objects that improve welfare at minimal material […]
Diurnal rhythms, locations and behavioural sequences associated with eliminative behaviours in fattening pigs
Understanding eliminative behaviours in pigs is very important to maintain individual and pen cleanliness. In this experiment, twenty fattening pigs were housed in four concrete floor pens with a floor space of 3.25 m2 per pig and free accessibility of outdoor runs. We studied the diurnal rhythms, locations and behavioural sequences associated with eliminative behaviours […]