How to Farm Pigs in South Africa|What you need to know

Pig farming in South Africa is very easy and very popular, but it also requires plenty of capital. This is because piglets cost between R400 and R800 each, they grow quickly, and the slaughtering costs are high.   If you are looking to start a pig farm in South Africa, or invest in an existing one, then this article is for you.

Ten Amazing Facts About Pigs

1. Pigs produce a large number of piglets per year, which results in an increase in individual production.

2. A female pig with good management can produce approximately 2500kg of pork per year.

3. Pigs are capable of consuming, digesting, and utilizing virtually any form of food, whether it is balanced (specialized) diet, kitchen garbage, or industrial waste.

4.They convert the most feed (4 kg of feed to 1 kg of live weight).

5. At the moment, it is estimated that the pig yields between 65 and 75% of meat in relation to its live weight, indicating that it performs exceptionally well in the carcass department when compared to other animals.

6. When newborn piglets reach the age of two weeks, they begin to respond to their mothers’ voices and understand their own names.

7. Adult pigs can run at rates of up to 17 kilometers per hour, or 1.5 kilometers in less than seven minutes.

8. Due to the fact that pigs lack sweat glands, one of the most effective methods for them to cool off is to wallow in wonderful mud or water.

9. Pigs communicate regularly with one another, with over 20 distinct vocalizations identified.

10. Pigs are exceptionally bright and sociable creatures. They prefer to sleep nose to nose when kept in a group. Additionally, studies have revealed that, like humans, they dream.

Pig Farming Business Facts in South Africa

1. To begin, it requires little to no capital.

2. Profitability is determined by management of production.

3.They can consume everything, including household scraps, farm crop residues, and so on, but the majority of these junk foods cause them to gain weight and produce less edible meat. It is critical to understand how pigs consume their food.

4. They require high-quality and nutrient-dense meals, particularly at a young age.

5. Breeding practices that are ethical produce ethical offspring.

6. Purified foundation stock can be used for an extended period of time and even for quick expansion.

7.They function admirably when managed properly.

8. They must be provided with sufficient water to drink and wallow in, because of their sensitivity to heat.

9. There will be issues about feces and wastewater disposal.

10. To begin, it is prudent to begin with a variety of pig breeds.