Page 123 - Agriculture Form Two

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Table 7.2: Optimum floor space requirement per age group for pigs

Class of pigs Total floor space (m per pig)
2
Piglets/Weaners 0.5
FOR ONLINE READING ONLY
Growers 1.0
Fatteners 2.0
Adults 2.5-5
Breeding boar 10
Lactating sow 7-10

Source: Sibuga etal (2004)

Activity 7.5

Pay a visit to school and nearby pig demonstration farms (such as livestock
research centers, livestock institutes, and outstanding pig keepers) to perform
the following tasks:
(a) Observe the general set-up of the piggery unit and types of houses for
various classes and farming systems of pigs; then,
(b) Summarise your observations in your portfolio.

Piggery

Like any other animal-related enterprise, pigs require proper housing, feeding,
health care, breeding, record keeping, and other management practice. All
these practices must be carried out at an organized pig production place called
piggery. A piggery is a farm or a specialized area where pigs are raised. A piggery
comprises of:

(i) Feeding area: The feeding place includes the space for feeds and water.
(ii) Resting place: Pigs like to rest most of the time and, therefore, need a
good resting space.
(iii) Space for dunging and exercising: Pigs require an area for dunging and
exercising; exercising makes them strong and fit, which is particularly
important for breeding males.
(iv) Drainage system: Pigs are clean animals if provided with enough space.
A draining system is required to collect and take away urine and dung to
the disposal point.

Student’s Book Form Two 115

04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 115 04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 115