Why Do Pigs Wallowing?

Wallowing (duration and bouts) generally increases with increasing ambient temperature and is used for thermoregulation as pigs have little hair and little ability to sweat. Wallowing – and applying a protective coating of mud – also serves to protect pigs from sunburn, flies and external parasites.

Do pigs need wallow?

Pigs lack functional sweat glands and wallowing in mud is an effective behavioural control mechanism in pigs to prevent hyperthermia. Wallowing, however, may also serve other functions, e.g. in scent-marking and sexual behaviour. ... If so, wallowing could be an important element of a good life in pigs.

Why do pigs need mud?

To help protect their skin from sunburn, pigs use mud as a form of sunscreen. When mud dries on their skin, it forms a barrier against the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. A good thick layer of mud also helps to protect pigs from insects. ... Mud helps to keep harmful insects away from pigs' sensitive skin.