Characteristics of a hybrid of a sheep and a pig, breed features and content
Today there are many interesting breeds of animals that are the result of many years of selection and work of scientists. One of these species is considered to be unusual pigs that resemble rams. They are often called a pig / sheep hybrid. But in fact, they are a combination of a common domestic pig and a rare variety of wild boars. This breed is called the Mangalitsa and is considered an endangered species.
History
The pig, which resembles a sheep, was bred in Hungary at the beginning of the nineteenth century. This breed was named Mangalitsa. Its representatives are distinguished by their original wavy coat. Therefore, pigs are often confused with a ram. In fact, they were obtained by crossing with jungle boars and large red pigs of the shalontai breed.
Representatives of this breed are distinguished by rapid weight gain and do not cause difficulties in care. They are characterized by delicious dietary meat and a unique appearance. That is why animals gained popularity first in Hungary and then all over the world.
Characteristics and features of the breed
This pig is characterized by a dense but lightweight skeleton. Moreover, representatives of this breed are large in size. At 1 year old, the piglet already weighs 160 kilograms. Adult animals even reach 3 centners. All individuals are characterized by excellent muscle mass and contain a minimum amount of fat.
The breed is characterized by seasonal hair loss. In the summer, pigs get rid of the backing. In this case, the dark bristles form rings. The coat becomes less stiff and protects the animals from parasites. If the pig retains a thick white coat in summer, this indicates improper feeding.
Pigs of this breed have a different color:
- white - it accounts for 80% of the total livestock;
- black;
- gray;
- red - are considered the rarest;
- mixed.
Red, black and mixed species are considered the rarest. They are bred exclusively by breeding farms. Guinea pigs have a dark patch and the same hair around the eyes. Many breeders are confident that animals are able to change their color, taking into account the conditions of detention.
Purebred animals at the bottom of the right ear should have a large black spot.As the pet grows, it merges with the general color.
A distinctive feature of the breed is the shape of the head. It is medium in size, with a snub nose and forward-facing ears. Animals are characterized by dark eyes and eyebrows. Pigs are considered to be very hardy. They are able to graze for a long time and easily remember the way home.
Main advantages and disadvantages
Animals have many advantages, which makes them popular with farmers:
- excellent taste of meat, the content of a large amount of vitamins and microelements in it;
- resistance to low temperatures - associated with the presence of wool;
- fast weight gain;
- omnivorous animals - they will be happy to eat different types of food;
- strong immunity - piglets do not need preventive vaccinations;
- the possibility of using undercoat for knitting;
- non-standard appearance;
- cleanliness - animals do not have an unpleasant odor.
Moreover, representatives of this breed also differ in disadvantages:
- rare - finding a purebred pig is very problematic;
- high cost of piglets;
- the need to walk on green grass;
- long period of growing up.
How to maintain and care
These pigs are resistant to low temperatures. This is due to the presence of curly hair. Therefore, it is permissible to keep animals even in poorly heated rooms. When raising pets, you should adhere to these recommendations:
- Provide plenty of room for walking. It is important that animals have access to green grass.
- Use sun and weather protection.
- Provide constant access to clean water. The pigs must be able to drink and bathe.
- Maintain a suitable indoor climate. Regular ventilation is also important.
What are hybrids fed
Representatives of this breed are considered to be absolutely omnivorous. However, in addition to pasture, they are advised to give root crops, steamed feed grains, boiled and raw vegetables. Also, pigs like to eat chestnuts, acorns, corn.
It is important to bear in mind that mangalis are strictly forbidden to overeat. They don't know the sense of proportion. Therefore, during the day, the piglet is able to gain 700-800 grams of weight.
Breeding features
If you plan to breed such pigs, it is important to consider that it is very difficult to find purebred representatives of the breed. Moreover, they are expensive. Unscrupulous breeders often cross mangalits with common domestic pigs. As a consequence, they lose their tribal characteristics. Therefore, when buying piglets, you should familiarize yourself with their pedigree.
Piglets should be purchased at 4-5 weeks. At this stage, vegetables and cereals are already present in their diet. Youngsters should definitely be given bone meal. He also needs red clay. These foods improve the growth of pets.Females mature at 6 months. The gestation period for a sow lasts 4 months. The next crossing with a male can be carried out 5-6 days after the birth of pups.
Frequent illnesses
Representatives of this breed are resistant to common diseases. Therefore, they do not need to be vaccinated. To minimize the risk of developing pathologies, it is worth insulating the pigsties. It is also important to avoid drafts and direct sunlight. What matters is strict adherence to sanitary standards. Mangalitsa pigs resemble sheep in appearance and are considered a source of tasty and healthy meat. In order for these rare animals to be successful, they need to be provided with suitable conditions.
