Effects of space allocation and temperature on periparturient maternal behaviors, steroid concentrations, and piglet growth rates (1996)

Biensen, N. J., von Borell, E. H., Ford, S. P.

Abstract

Similar periparturient behaviors were displayed by all sows, regardless of farrowing environment. Sows in pens had a reduced piglet birth interval compared with sows in crates (12.95 +/- 1.35 min vs 18.31 +/- 2.21 min, respectively). Additionally, compared with multiparous sows in crates, multiparous sows in pens weaned heavier piglets.