Strange New Bullying Behaviour.

[Alec]

Hi guys. Over the last 2 weeks one of my sows has been showing dominant behaviour a lot more than usual, they both have their rumbley moments now and again which is natural but this has been going on a while, rumbling, rocking, head nudging and chasing. It seems she is constantly looking for a fight. I feel I should add that they are both on medication at the moment for mites and the weather has been warmer than usual. Generally they bond well and groom one another, this is just a recent thing we have noticed after around ten months. Thanks.

 

[Beans&Toast]

My Toast is doing that lately. When she comes into season it seems to be lasting longer than normal and she's more agitated with Beans. Does it only happen when one is in season? Do they have enough space to run around and get away from each other if they're a bit grumpy?

 

[Alec]

My Toast is doing that lately. When she comes into season it seems to be lasting longer than normal and she's more agitated with Beans. Does it only happen when one is in season? Do they have enough space to run around and get away from each other if they're a bit grumpy?

It could be a case of being in season. They should have enough space as it's not a small hutch. Thanks for reply.

 

[Freela]

It sounds like normal dominance behavior... it could be related to a heat cycle or hormones in generally (especially depending on their age- adolescent pigs can be quite moody!) Hadley (dominant pig) is generally pretty laid back, but sometimes will throw her weight around this way, seemingly especially in the spring. I don't know if it's been proven, but I tend to think that all animals get hormonally frisky in the spring!

 

[Alec]

It sounds like normal dominance behavior... it could be related to a heat cycle or hormones in generally (especially depending on their age- adolescent pigs can be quite moody!) Hadley (dominant pig) is generally pretty laid back, but sometimes will throw her weight around this way, seemingly especially in the spring. I don't know if it's been proven, but I tend to think that all animals get hormonally frisky in the spring!

Thanks for the post. Yea it very well could be that. It seems to be dying off now.