Page 132 - Agriculture Form Two

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Characteristics of breeding pigs (boars, sows, and gilts)

Breeding pigs (boars, sows, and gilts) should possess the following features
(a) Genetic quality: Select breeding animals from lines with desirable traits
such as high fertility, fast growth rates, feed efficiency, disease resistance,
and good carcass quality. Ensure that boars and gilts come from well-
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documented lineages aligning with the farm’s production goals.
(b) Physical conformation: Both boars and gilts should have strong, well-
developed bodies with balanced structures. Boars should have sturdy legs
and feet to support their weight during mating, while gilts should have well-
aligned legs and feet to support them during breeding and nursing. Gilts need
a well-developed udder with at least 12 functional teats to ensure adequate
milk production for future litters.

(c) Reproductive performance and maturity: Boars should have fully
developed and healthy reproductive organs, high libido, and good semen
quality. Gilts should reach sexual maturity around 6-8 months, with regular
estrus cycles, and be bred when they get around 135 kg to ensure they are
mature enough to carry a litter successfully.

(d) Temperament: Both boars and gilts should have a calm but active
temperament. Boars that are too aggressive can cause injuries, while overly
passive boars may not mate effectively. Gilts with a calm temperament are
better mothers.
(e) Health and hygiene: Regular health checks, vaccinations, proper nutrition,
and hygiene are essential for boars and gilts. Both should be free from
diseases and genetic defects.

(f) Longevity: Select breeding animals with the potential for long reproductive
lives. Boars should produce many litters over several years, and gilts should
be capable of producing multiple large litters with low piglet mortality rates.

Management of boars and mating
Before mating, the sow and gilts should be flushed to prepare them for mating.
Flushing involves increasing the feed intake of sows or gilts, particularly those
in poor body condition, before breeding. The goal is to enhance their overall
health and reproductive efficiency, leading to higher conception rates and larger
litter sizes. Flushing typically starts 2-3 weeks before mating and continues
throughout the breeding period. This ensures that sows and gilts are in optimal
body conditions when bred.

124 Student’s Book Form Two

04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 124 04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 124