30 Jul 2013, 09:23 AM
AHDB Pork Blog
It is important for pig producers to do all they can to keep sows cool in warm weather. Two or more consecutive days of temperatures greater than 18°C, around weaning and during late or very early lactation, can result in a reduced farrowing rate.
Shades, wallows, sprinklers can all help. Wallows are a key method to help outdoor pigs cool down in hot weather and help prevent heat stress.
Good management of wallows is vital and includes: making the wallow big enough for twice the number of pigs it will serve, replenishing wallows with water in dry periods and ensuring it is more liquid than mud – aim for ‘emulsion paint’ consistency.
For more information go to: www.bpex.org.uk/2TS/breeding/Summer.aspx
By AHDBPork at 30 Jul 2013, 09:23 AM