Behavior of Moura breed pigs in silvopastoral systems

Abstract

Animal production aims to reconcile sustainability and efficiency. In this context, silvopastoral systems emerge as a promising and little explored alternative. This exploratory study evaluated the behaviour of Moura pigs, raised in a silvopastoral system, in the middle of the Araucaria forest and native fields. Behaviour was assessed using an ethogram, to quantify the animals’ habits in the forest. This made it possible to analyze the animals’ activities, providing information about their social, feeding and general behaviour. As a result, the behavioural evaluation showed that the pigs were able to consume pasture and pine nuts in open areas under the araucaria trees. Furthermore, no anomalous behaviours or stereotypies were detected in animals raised in the silvopastoral system, indicating a better quality of life and well-being of animals raised in a free-range environment. Finally, the silvopastoral system proved to be an alternative for pig farming providing a more natural environment, with greater dietary diversity, a lower rate of negative behaviours and, consequently, improved well-being for the animals.