EURCAW-Pigs webinar: “What is a pig?”

This webinar is specifically designed for National Competent Authorities and state veterinary inspectors

EURCAW-Pigs invites you to the webinar “What is a pig” to explore:

• What drives natural pig behavior?
• Why do these behaviors matter for pig welfare?
• How can understanding them improve husbandry practices?

The session will include expert insights and video sequences, and time for open discussion.

Understanding the natural behaviours of pigs, also called species-specific behaviours, is essential for ensuring pig welfare on farms. Strong innate motivations, deeply rooted in the evolutionary history and biological needs of pigs, drive these behaviours essential for fulfilling the pigs’ needs. If needs are not met pigs experience frustration and stress, while fulfilling the needs can result in positive mental states that facilitate positive welfare.

Program
14:00–14:05 Welcome and introduction; Lene Juul Pedersen

14:05–14:10 Short introduction to EURCAW-pigs; Lars Schrader

14:10–14:55 Main Presentations: “What is a Pig?”:

1. Sexual behavior, nest-building, and maternal care including natural weaning; Lene Juul Pedersen
2. Social structure, social behaviour and communication, senses; Lars Schrader
3. Foraging, resting, and thermoregulation; Antje Schubbert

14:55–15:15 Q&A and discussion on how knowledge of natural behaviors can improve husbandry practices and pig welfare; moderated by Lene Juul Pedersen

15:15 Closing of the webinar.