Pig enrichment is a legal requirement

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), Northern Ireland, has reminded pig producers that it is important to provide environmental enrichment for pigs.

According to the DARD, pigs need to be provided with a stimulus and an outlet for natural exploratory and manipulation activities with materials such as straw, hay, wood, sawdust, mushroom compost or peat. Research has shown that this helps in reducing harmful social behaviour, such as tail biting.

 

The Northern Ireland Code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Pigs gives pig producers advice on environmental enrichment of pigs and other pig welfare guidance.