Pigs are gentle but they can also become aggressive from fighting over feed, fighting to establish a hierarchy, protecting their young, to reacting to a stressful environment.
Pigs are often known as gentle animals, but sometimes they also have unexpected actions that surprise us. Let’s explore the top aggressive actions that pigs can show.
1. BITING EACH OTHER OVER FEED
Pigs are herd animals, but they can become aggressive when feed is insufficient or not distributed equally. In these cases, pigs will often bite and push each other to get feed. In a collective living environment, pigs often struggle to establish hierarchy in the herd. These clashes often take place to assert position and power within the herd. When feed sources are scarce, pigs will try to get as much feed as possible. If there is not enough space or the feeder is not big enough, pigs may push and bite each other to access feed. These behaviors can lead to injury and even death if not controlled promptly.
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2. STRUGGLE TO ESTABLISH HIERARCHY
In a herd environment, pigs frequently engage in behaviors to establish hierarchy within the group. Stronger, larger pigs will seek to dominate, while weaker pigs will seek to avoid or accept a lower position. Pigs have an instinct to fight to establish status within the herd, giving them access to better food and bedding. When new pigs join the herd, fights to establish new hierarchies often occur. These fights can lead to injuries and stress among the pigs in the herd, affecting their health and productivity.
3. PROTECT THE YOUNG
Mother pigs, especially during the newborn period, can become extremely aggressive to protect their young from threats. Mother pigs can attack other pigs or farmers if they feel their babies are in danger. Protecting her young is part of a mother’s instinct to ensure the survival of the next generation. When the environment changes too much or when the young are threatened, the mother pig will become more aggressive. This behavior can be dangerous for the farmer if not careful, and can cause tension in the herd if other pigs don’t know to stay away.
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4. REACTION TO STRESSFUL ENVIRONMENTS
When pigs are placed in an uncomfortable environment, such as a cage that is too cramped, too noisy, or when they feel threatened, they may react by biting, kicking, or running amok. Pigs need space to move and rest. When they don’t have enough space, they will feel stressed. Loud sounds or sudden changes in the environment can frighten pigs and make them aggressive. When feeling threatened by external factors such as the intrusion of enemies or strangers, pigs can react strongly. These behaviors not only injure the pig itself, but can also injure other pigs and cause difficulties for caregivers.
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Despite their aggressive actions, pigs are still friendly and approachable animals when raised in a good environment. Understanding these actions helps us take the best care of them.