[Description problem/question]:
Newborn piglets in organic farrowing pens have a lower survival rate than in conventional farrowing pens. This difference is mainly caused by housing the sow loose compared to crated and by climatic effects of the outdoor temperature. Organic lactating sows should have at least 7.5 m² indoor area with straw and a 2.5 m² outdoor run. The first two years of the project mainly focussed on the hardware: pen design, floor heating, bedding and accessability of the piglet nest. From 2006 the focus will also be on maternal behaviour and management.
[Objectives]:
of the project is to increase piglet survival in order to improve animal welfare as well as the profitability of organic farms.
[Results and products]:
So far the project was not successful in reducing piglet mortality. However 10.5 piglets per litter are weaned from the more than 13 liveborn piglets. Additional floor heating and a longer solid floor did not reduce the number of crushed piglets. The analysis of the results of the bedding and the accessibility is planned for December 2005.
The project results in practical advises (website, demonstrations and leaflets) and publications in Dutch magazines. One conference presentation was held in august 2004 and an scientific publication is in preparation |
