Free Range Pigs

Seems like a pity to break up the party but these three little buggers are leaving the farm tomorrow for their new homes. 

Unlike our first litter that we had to raise in the old school cement pig pen, this group has been true "free-range/pasture" pigs from day one and the difference is remarkable. You cannot imagine how much less irritating they are when they aren't kept in a small pen. The mess, the manure, the general pig "badness" all goes away.

They are neurotically clean and have their "bathroom" area at the far corner of the pasture. Unlike the pigs we kept in small pens, these guys aren't nearly as obnoxious and destructive--all that curious, problem-solving, naughty rooting behavior has instead been put to good use in them helping feed themselves. They have nearly cleared the horse pasture of every pig weed and kochia bush! I must say, pasture pigs are the way to go.

Rest assured, piggy lovers, this group won't end up in the meat locker any time soon--all three have been purchased as breeding stock. I am pretty proud that we have raised stock that is going to get the chance to pass on its genetics. We are keeping one gilt back and will do the same!