Description of the best breeds of red pigs and conditions of detention, pros and cons
Every piglet farmer knows that there are a great many breeds of these domestic animals. Thanks to the efforts of the breeders, more than 100 species of pigs with different characteristics, color and composition of the meat obtained are distinguished in the breed classifier. The red pig breed is a rarity for private farms in Russia, but in vain, piglets of such breeds are very decorative and are distinguished by high meat productivity.
Breeds of red pigs
The original orange color of the hide of domestic pigs is often called red by many breeders. Consider the most popular varieties of red-haired beauties:
- Tamworth.
- Duroc.
- Red Guinea.
The most popular breed of red meat-greasy direction, grown everywhere, is Duroc. Pigs of this variety are distinguished by a strong physique and a fairly long body. The original reddish-golden color of the bristles makes the representatives of this breed noticeable among other species of pigs. Legs in adults are rather long and strong. Ears droop, Duroc pigs are considered early maturing, the average daily weight gain can reach 950 grams.
Tamworth are representatives of the bacon trend. The variety was bred in England and is considered one of the oldest. Tamworth pigs rarely get sick and are distinguished by strong immunity and endurance; animals are able to live in regions with a harsh climate. The ears are erect, the color of the bristles is uniform, light red, sometimes there are individuals with curly bristles. The litter of one female is on average 10 piglets.
Red Guinea pigs are the progenitors of the Duroc, the breed belongs to American selection. This ancient species is not productive, therefore it was improved by breeders and breeders.
On a note! Breeds of pigs with a red color are distinguished by a peaceful disposition, lack of aggression. Animals can be kept together with other pets for walking in the common yard.
Among the ancient Hungarian variety of pigs - the Mangalitsky breed, you can also find red specimens. In this breed, the color may be different, a distinctive feature of the pigs is a thick, curly coat. In Russia, it is grown in the North Caucasus, popular in the Moscow region.
Breeding advantages and disadvantages
The main advantages of Duroc include:
- The yield of pure meat is above average - 65-70%.
- Early maturity, subject to the growing conditions and proper nutrition, piglets gain up to 950 grams per day.
- The original bright red color of the bristles gives Duroc decorative qualities.
- Strong legs and meat hams.
- The fat is no more than 1.9 centimeters thick.
- Peaceful disposition.
The disadvantages of the species include the following characteristics:
- Fecundity of females is below average, one sow rarely brings more than 10 piglets.
- It is not recommended to grow in regions with a harsh climate, Duroc pigs tend to catch colds and often suffer from atrophic rhinitis.
- The diet of pigs must be carefully balanced, with a low protein content in the feed, the positive genetic qualities of the species are not revealed.
Duroc was included in the state breed classifier in Russia in 1993, the breed is recommended for cultivation in southern regions and zones with a temperate climate.
Features of the content
If you are going to keep pigs in a common yard, choose peaceful, non-aggressive, but mobile and active species. It is to these types that Duroc belongs. In order for the breed to reach its full potential and achieve maximum performance, provide and properly formulate the diet for the animals. Duroc needs a higher protein content in the feed, it is recommended to provide the pigs with the opportunity to walk. In this case, the covered shed is placed next to the entrance to the pigsty so that the animal can independently go out and enter the barn.
Be sure to vaccinate animals and conduct deworming. Pigs must have constant access to fresh drinking water. Ventilate the area where pigs are kept regularly and change the litter on time. Provide lighting in the pigsty, insulate walls, floor and ceiling.
It is important to keep animals for fattening not too crowded, it is necessary to provide enough space for pigs during feeding. In the hot season, the amount of drinking water is increased by a quarter. Separate feeders are made for small pigs.
Pig breeding is a thriving productive livestock industry in our country. When choosing a species for cultivation, it is important to take into account all the features of the content, experience and recommendations of the breeders. In regions with harsh winters and cold climates, it makes no sense to grow Duroc, animals will get sick a lot and will not be able to demonstrate high productivity.
