Behaviour of groups of weaner pigs in three different housing systems

Behavioural observations were made on 150 3-week weaned pigs housed in pens with fully perforated floors, or a solid-floored lying area with or without straw. Observations were made during a period of high ambient temperatures and during cool weather. At high ambient temperatures pigs with part-solid floors defaecated and urinated in the lying area and showed a higher (P less than 0.01) incidence of rooting behaviour associated with wallowing. Pigs on fully perforated floors showed reduced levels of activity in hot conditions (P less than 0.01). Pigs given straw were more active (P less than 0.01) and spent 25% of active behaviour in straw directed behaviour. There was a higher incidence (P less than 0.01) of oral behaviour directed at penmates and pen fittings amongst pigs housed on fully perforated floors.