Determining the Optimum Stocking Density in Nursery Pigs

Posted in: Pork Insight Articles, Prairie Swine Centre, Production by student on June 11, 2018

This study addresses concerns surrounding space allowance in nursery pigs to establish the critical cut off points at which crowding occurs. This study was divided into phase one and phase two. Phase one taking place in the Nursery barn at Prairie Swine center. In phase one the results found that during the summer months there was no significant differences found in growth and immune responses between the two densities (10 and 40 pigs). However, there were significant effects for body positioning with regards to density. More pigs were found sitting at lower space allowances and also spent more time eating. Further analysis correlating growth and physiology measures will help interpret the importance of these changes for piglet health and welfare. Phase two of the trial will focus on two commercial operations and apply a similar concept.

Determining the Optimum Stocking Density in Nursery Pigs – 2017

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