A concern for having larger groups of pigs together is a possible rise in aggressive behaviours, however previous research shows the aggression levels are similar in small and large groups. Eating behaviour may change, especially as new technology such as large group auto-sort (LGAS) systems are installed. Pigs need to put in more effort to access feed in LGAS systems as they are located in the food court which has restricted access through a single sorter scale. Two LGAS systems were observed to see pigs behaviour. The diurnal eating pattern was maintained, but meals were modified to be fewer but longer. An adequate number of feeding spaces is needed along with training methods to facilitate use of the auto-sort scale and sufficient room to move in the food court.
Behaviour of Pigs in Large Group Auto-Sort (full article)
