Gilt Anatomy

Estrous Cycle

"Back-Pressure Test"

*Red, swollen vulva which is usually more pronounced in gilts than in sows. * Increased nervous activity * Desire to seek boar Secondary Signs of Estrus

* Change in vocalization (grunts and growls). *Increase in vaginal mucous (thumb check) * Loss of appetite

Boar Anatomy

Breeding * Breeding naturally (with boar) * Artificial Insemination * Combination of both

Embryonic Position in the Uterine Horns

Embryonic Survival

Gestation * 114 Days…or commonly… 3 months… 3 weeks… 3 days.

Farrowing

After Birth: * Needle teeth are clipped * Ears are notched * Injected with iron shot * Tail docked

Clipping of Needle Teeth

Credits World Book Encyclopedia 2002 (Computer Software)