When pigs that are strangers fight, it can have an impact on their attitude in subsequent encounters, according to new research at Scotland’s Rural College,
While aggressive pigs are less likely to learn from losing a fight, non-aggressive pigs are significantly more affected by winning or losing a social conflict, they said.
The study is related to animal welfare such as injuries, stress, poor growth and decline in immunity.
Scientists used body language such as ear posture, the direction of their eyes, grunts and squeals to assess their reactions to encounters with strange pigs.
Lead researcher Lucy Oldham said: “a key aim of this study was to find out what being an aggressive pig is like for the pig - which is really important when it comes to solving the problem of aggression on farms.
“Our results show that the welfare of both aggressive and non-aggressive pigs suffers.
“It is therefore advantageous for all animals if we can find ways to reduce their aggressiveness by providing social and physical environments that encourage their best natures.”
