The breeding cycle of pigs

1. The breeding cycle of pigs L.O. Be able to describe the breeding cycle including gestation, birth and care of offspring. Starter - Copy out with correct definition for each word. Boar Young female pig The length of time for which an embryo is carried within the female Gilt Gestation Male pig

2. Use the information you have been given to add timescales and detail to the breeding cycle below Gilt comes into heat at ______ days old at a weight of _____ kgs. Once the sow has weaned her litter of piglets she will come into heat again within ____ days. She can now be ______ once more. Thereafter she will come into heat every _____ days. The farmer will be able to tell she is in heat because _________. Once the sow has mated she will have a gestation period of _____. Once the sow has had her piglets she should stay with them for around _______ days.

3. Questions on Pig breeding cycle • List two differences between gilts and sows. • What factors effect the onset of puberty? • What is the longest period a sow may stay in heat for? • In commercial farming are gilts mated the first time they come into heat? • When does ovulation (release of the females egg) occur?