Ten of them! Shelly tells me this is a good manageable number. Otherwise the sow loses track of her litter and may lie down on top of them. The piglets are all healthy! Right now they spend their time huddled together and scrambling around on top of each other under the warming lights because of our currently very low temperatures. They have very little body fat and need to stay warm. Katie is just on the other side, available through a small opening where they can visit anytime they like.
One important difference in our Whistling Train Farm pigs and commercially raised pigs is the amount of room the sow and piglets have. Often in a commercial enviroment they are crated with just enough room for the sow, piglets and feeding trough. The lifestyle of the pig is just as important as what they eat. Although some large livestock breeders who have organic programs provide outdoor areas for the pigs, some do not. It is not a requirement. Exercise and socializing is an important part of a pigs life. Commercial pigs are known to chew off one anothers tails in tight quarters, most likely due to their boredom and irritability. Exercise and room to romp provide good muscle tone and a relaxed pig.
Meet Shirley.
Shirley belonged to Mike and Shelly awhile back and now she is home again. Shirley is Ms. Figs mother. Shelly and Mike have a sneaking suspicion that she is carrying a litter. Shirley is also a pure bred Berkshire like all the other sows on the farm and is very friendly and personable. Shirley loves to be scratched and leans into me letting me know I am right on target! Shelly is very happy to have her back.
Ms Fig and Rusty.
The rumour is Ms. Fig and Rusty have been seen 
'together". It looks as though Brasa will have an ample supply of pigs this spring! Rusty has been earning his keep it seems.
Violet and Piglets.
Violets pigs are growing quickly. They have more than doubled in size. Their intelligence is very clear. 
Berkshires are the most intelligent of all the breeds. Her rapidly growing litter, were so curious and interested in us! The piglets are already very toned due to the room they have to run around and have been nibbling at Moms feed but Violet is typically not in the mood to share. The piglets will remain on Violets milk for a few more weeks. So far, Violet is okay with that, but soon will grow impatient and her piglets (pigs) will be feeding on a diet of organic apples, berries and sources of protein. Pigs need a lot of protein to grow muscle, fat and flavor.
'Life of a Pig' Celebration.
April 20
6pm
50.00 per person.(alcohol not included)
Come and enjoy a family style feast honoring this amazing animal. I will prepare the pigs a few different ways as well as various side dishes using local product from various farms in the area. Shelly and Mike will be here to celebrate with us. Bryan will will showcase local wine and beer producers. This feast allows us the opportunity to recognize, appreciate and honor the farmers, the sustainable process in which these animals were raised and the exact reason for which they were raised. I for one am very grateful.
For reservations call 206-728-4220.
Thanks again!
Tamara