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Effects of maternal artificial vocalization on hyperprolific lactating sows and piglets behavior
Rennan H R Moreira1, Rodrigo F DE Oliveira2, Jorge Y P Palencia1
1Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Lavras/UFLA, Avenida Sul, s/n, 37200-000 Lavras, MG, Brazil.
Anais Da Academia Brasileira De Ciencias
|December 6, 2018
Summary
Artificial vocalization in lactating sows increased eating and nursing behaviors, promoting greater lactation efficiency and rest time. This maternal vocalization technique positively impacts sow welfare without affecting litter performance.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Behavioral Biology
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Lactating sows' welfare and productivity are crucial in swine farming.
- Understanding behavioral responses to environmental stimuli is key for optimizing animal husbandry.
- Artificial vocalization is an emerging tool to modulate animal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of artificial vocalization on lactating sow and litter behavior.
- To evaluate the effects of artificial vocalization on sow performance and body condition.
- To determine the influence of artificial vocalization across different lactation weeks.
Main Methods:
- A completely randomized design with a 2x2 factorial scheme was employed.
- Twenty-eight sows and litters were subjected to artificial vocalization or control conditions.
- Animal behavior, including nursing events and activity patterns, was monitored over 24-hour periods on days 7 and 15 of lactation.
Main Results:
- Artificial vocalization increased sow eating frequency and piglet nursing frequency.
- Inactive sow behavior was elevated, while alert behavior decreased with vocalization.
- The number and duration of suckling sessions decreased by the 15th day of lactation.
- Sow body condition, milk production, and litter performance remained unaffected.
Conclusions:
- Maternal artificial vocalization enhances lactation efficiency and sow rest periods.
- The technique shows potential for improving sow welfare during the lactation phase.
- Further research may explore long-term effects and optimal application protocols.
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