Pig Facts 3

•  1.   Pigs don’t sweat
• Sweat like a pig? While this is a common phrase, it is not accurate! Pigs do not have sweat glands, meaning they are unable to sweat. Instead, to cool themselves down, pigs enjoy wallowing in mud.
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• 2.   Pigs are very clean animals
• Dirty as a pigsty? Pigs being dirty animals is another common misconception. When given proper space, pigs will not soil the areas where they sleep or eat. This misconception comes their their habit of wallowing in mud to keep themselves cool.
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• 3.   Pigs are smarter than dogs
• Pigs are incredibly smart animals, and their high level of intelligence consistently ranks them as one of the smartest animals in the world. Research into their high cognitive ability shows that they can play complex games, use tools, recognize their own name, and learn basic commands and tricks.
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• 4.   Pigs say more than just oink!
• One way pigs communicate with one another is through distinct grunts and squeals. More than 20 vocalizations have been identified, each one conveying a different message. Mothers have special calls for their piglets, and the piglets learn to recognize their mother’s call.
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• Exciting new research is being done to create a pig translator – which could be used to monitor how pigs are feeling, and could pave the way for better treatment of pigs on farms.
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• 5.   Pigs are social
• Pigs prefer to be in groups, and become stressed when they are alone. They form strong bonds with one another, and even other animals and humans! These friendships can last their lifetime. When kept in groups, pigs can be found snuggling close to one another for comfort and warmth.