Ear Nibbling/pulling?

[MushiiPeas]

Hey guys when i was sitting by cage a minute ago i noticed that between one of my sows pairs, Buttercup who is the dominant pig was cuddling up with Baby when she started nibbling Baby's ear and then she kept pulling at it which looked quite rough to me. Baby wasn't squealing or anything, in-fact she nuzzled buttercup back under her chin and was grooming her, it just looked sore to me!

Is this normal or should i be worried?

 

[Jerrybelly]

I believe that cleaning the ears can be a sign of dominance - not necessarily in a nasty way. If Baby didn't seem bothered by it, then I wouldn't worry

 

[Wiebke]

It is called "power grooming" and translates as "I invite you to be part of the group I am leading"!

Only worry if the ear grooming is excessive and damages the ear.

 

[MushiiPeas]

It is called "power grooming" and translates as "I invite you to be part of the group I am leading"!

Only worry if the ear grooming is excessive and damages the ear.

Thanks so much, I'll keep an eye on it!

 

[Claire W]

My Emma does this. She especially does it to Eliza (who used to be my top sow) and when Eliza has had enough she will let Emma know about it who soon backs off.

I find it incredibly sweet to watch