Evaluation of different heating systems for new-born swine

The use of heating systems for new-born piglets can prevent major losses in the first 5 weeks of life. The present study had the objective of evaluating three heating systems in creeps for new-born piglets, being: floor-heated floor with circulating water (HF), incandescent lamp type SPOT 40 W (L) and incandescent lamp type SPOT 40 W plus black metal plate (LP). The variables evaluated were piglet performance (total weight gain and mortality), bioclimatic data (temperature and relative air humidity), animal behaviour and economic revenue. Bioclimatic data were recorded in the external environment, in the maternity and in the interior of each shelter/creep for 21 days, three times a day, as well as the capture of photographic images for analysis of the animals' disposal. The mean temperature of the retractors, the weight at weaning and the weight gain were higher in the HF treatment. Treatment HF improved the percentage of dispersed animals and provided the best thermal environment and the highest revenue at the time of the commercialization of the piglets.