Today there are many interesting breeds of animals that are the result of many years of selection and work by scientists. One of these species is considered to be unusual pigs that resemble rams. They are often called a hybrid of a pig and a sheep. But in reality they are a combination of the common domestic pig and a rare variety of wild boar. This breed is called Mangalitsa and is considered an endangered species.
Story
The pig, which resembles a sheep, was bred in Hungary in the early nineteenth century. This breed is called Mangalitsa.Its representatives are distinguished by their original wavy coat. This is why pigs are often confused with sheep. In fact, they were obtained by crossing with reed boars and large red Shalontai pigs.
Representatives of this breed are distinguished by rapid weight gain and are not difficult to care for. They are characterized by tasty dietary meat and a unique appearance. That is why animals gained popularity first in Hungary, and then throughout the world.
Characteristics and features of the breed
This pig is characterized by a dense but light skeleton. Moreover, representatives of this breed are large in size. At 1 year old, the piglet already weighs 160 kilograms. Adult animals even reach 3 centners. All individuals are characterized by excellent muscle mass and contain a minimal amount of fat.
The breed is characterized by seasonal hair loss. In the summer, pigs get rid of their fur. In this case, the dark bristles form rings. The wool becomes less harsh and protects animals from parasites. If a pig retains thick white hair in summer, this indicates improper feeding.
Pigs of this breed have different colors:
- white – it accounts for 80% of the total livestock;
- black;
- gray;
- red – considered the rarest;
- mixed.
Red, black and mixed species are considered the rarest. They are bred exclusively by breeding farms. White pigs have a dark patch and the same fur around the eyes. Many breeders are confident that animals are capable of changing their color depending on the conditions of their detention.
Purebred animals should have a large black spot at the bottom of the right ear. As the pet grows, it blends in with the overall color.
The shape of the head is also considered a distinctive feature of the breed. It is distinguished by its medium size, snub nose and forward-pointing ears. The animals are characterized by dark eyes and eyebrows. Pigs are considered very hardy. They are able to spend a long time grazing and easily remember the way home.
Main advantages and disadvantages
Animals have many advantages, which makes them popular among farmers:
- excellent taste of meat, it contains a large amount of vitamins and microelements;
- resistance to low temperatures - associated with the presence of wool;
- rapid weight gain;
- omnivorous animals - they will happily eat different types of food;
- strong immunity – piglets do not need preventive vaccinations;
- possibility of using undercoat for knitting;
- non-standard appearance;
- cleanliness - animals do not have an unpleasant odor.
However, representatives of this breed also have disadvantages:
- rarity - finding a purebred pig is very problematic;
- high cost of piglets;
- need for walking on green grass;
- long period of growing up.
How to maintain and care
These pigs are resistant to low temperatures. This is due to the presence of curly hair. Therefore, it is permissible to keep animals even in poorly heated rooms. When raising pets, you should adhere to the following recommendations:
- Provide plenty of space to walk. It is important that animals have access to green grass.
- Use protection from the sun and bad weather.
- Provide constant access to clean water.Pigs should be able to drink and bathe.
- Maintain a suitable microclimate in the room. Regular ventilation is important.
What do hybrids feed?
Representatives of this breed are considered absolutely omnivorous. However, in addition to pasture, they are recommended to be given root vegetables, steamed feed grains, boiled and raw vegetables. Pigs also love to eat chestnuts, acorns, and corn.
It is important to consider that Mangalitsa are strictly forbidden to overeat. They have no sense of proportion. Therefore, within a day, a pig is able to gain 700-800 grams of weight.
Breeding Features
If you plan to breed such pigs, it is important to consider that it is very difficult to find purebred representatives of the breed. Besides, they are expensive. Unscrupulous breeders often cross Mangalitsa with ordinary domestic pigs. As a result, they lose their breeding characteristics. Therefore, when buying piglets, it is worth familiarizing yourself with their pedigree.
It is worth purchasing piglets at 4-5 weeks. At this stage, their diet already includes vegetables and cereals. Young animals should definitely be given bone meal. He also requires red clay. These products improve the growth of pets.Females mature at 6 months. The period of gestation of piglets by a sow lasts 4 months. The next crossing with a male can be carried out 5-6 days after the birth of the cubs.
Frequent illnesses
Representatives of this breed are resistant to common diseases. Therefore, they do not need to be vaccinated. To minimize the risk of developing pathologies, it is worth insulating pigsties. It is also important to avoid drafts and direct sunlight. Strict compliance with sanitary standards is important.Mangalitsa pigs resemble sheep in appearance and are considered a source of tasty and healthy meat. In order for the cultivation of these rare animals to be successful, they must be provided with suitable conditions.
