With their stocky bodies, short legs, and cute snouts, pigs have captivated humans for centuries. And while we may not always see eye to eye with our porcine friends (after all, they are responsible for some pretty destructive rooting behavior), there’s no denying that they’re interesting creatures.
One of the things that makes pigs so interesting is their propensity for rolling in mud. You may have wondered what they’re doing on earth if you’ve seen a pig wallowing in a muddy puddle. After all, it doesn’t seem the most pleasant way to spend a day and doesn’t make them very clean animals.
So why do pigs roll in the mud? It turns out that there are a few different reasons why pigs enjoy a good mud bath. Let’s discuss them in detail.
1. Temperature Maintenance
With all of the common reasons for pigs rolling around in the mud, there is one that stands out above the rest. Humans have no problem keeping our bodies at the correct temperature because we have functional sweat glands that secrete perspiration. Sweat is composed mostly of water mixed with salt and amino acids. When we sweat, the water dissipates into the air, which helps cool the skin. Unfortunately, pigs cannot sweat like we do to keep their body temperatures regulated. This is why rolling around in mud is essential for pigs when the weather starts to heat up.
Pigs will roll in the mud when outside temperatures rise to keep cool and prevent overheating. This is because they have very few sweat glands and a barrel-like, heat-storing physique. Rolling in the mud can lower an animal’s body temperature by 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit, making mud more efficient than sweating. It’ll keep adult pigs cool with wallowing behavior.
2. Used as a Sunscreen
Pigs don’t just roll in the mud to cool down; they also use it as a natural sunscreen. The skin of a pig is very light pink, and it can easily get sunburned. To prevent this, pigs will roll around in the mud, slowly dries on their skin and creating a natural barrier against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Pigs also enjoy rolling around in the mud because it feels good on their skin. In addition to providing sun protection, mud can help heal cuts and wounds.
3. Insect Repellent
Another reason pigs like to roll around in the mud is to keep bugs away. Several insects are attracted to pigs and their food because they provide a good environment. A thick layer of mud helps protect the pig from insects, thus keeping them away from the pigs’ sensitive skin. Ticks and lice need air to breathe and cannot survive if trapped under a layer of mud. Biting bugs like the fly will bother other animals if they encounter an obstacle like mud. By rolling in the mud, pigs can cover their bodies with a layer of protection that keeps insects at bay.
4. Wallowing Reasons
With the markings of their glands, feral and domestic pigs declare their territory through wallowing. Rolling around leaves their scent behind, claiming the area as their own. Also, in colder weather, pigs take to wallowing. The layer of mud acts as an insulator, trapping the pigs’ body heat. Consequently, wallowing serves two purposes for pigs: marking territory and regulating temperature.
Pigs have also been known to use wallowing to cool off in hot weather. They can lower their body temperature by rolling around in mud or water and staying comfortable in otherwise scorching conditions.
About Modern Farming
Farming has changed over the years, and some modern methods have removed the natural behavior of wallowing animals in the mud. This is done by giving them air-conditioned barns to keep them cool and using medications to keep the bugs away. However, this method has consequences. When animals’ natural behaviors are removed, they could become stressed and show signs of aggression, like nipping and tail biting. This could lead to serious welfare issues for the animal.
Rolling in mud is a natural behavior for pigs that serves multiple purposes. Whether they try to stay cool or warm, protect themselves from the sun or pests, or mark their territory, pigs will continue to roll around in the mud for years.
FAQs
1. Are Pigs Happy in Mud?
Yes, often called dirty animals, pigs are happy in mud. Pigs are natural wallowers and love to roll around in the mud to cool off and enjoy a good scratch. Also, the mud helps pigs stay cool. When it’s hot outside, pigs often seek out mud puddles to stay in and keep cool.
2. Is It Normal for Pigs to Eat Mud?
No, it is not normal for pigs to eat mud. While some pigs may nibble on wet or muddy areas while wallowing, eating large quantities of mud can lead to digestive problems. If you notice your pig eating mud, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
3. How Do I Keep My Pig from Rolling in Mud?
If you don’t want your pig to roll in the mud, you can try to provide other sources of relief from the heat, such as a kiddie pool filled with water or a sprinkler to help cool them off. You can also offer them access to shady areas where they can escape the sun. But remember, it is significant for pig farmers that pigs wallow as it’ll protect pigs.