The domestic pig (sus domestica) belongs to the Suidae
family and are by nature omnivores (eat both plants and animals). Bred for
meat, leather and for making brushes across the globe, the domestic pig numbers
in the billions and besides the wild hog or boar, most live in captivity
whether as a source of food or as pets.
Thought to be dirty animals pigs actually lack sweat glands
and roll around in mud to help them keep cool. The mud acts as sun screen and
protect their hairless skin. Pigs are omnivores and consumer both meat and
plants. In fact, wild pigs are scavengers and all pigs will eat just about
anything they can. Pigs have large
strong teeth and sensitive but strong noses or snouts. Both features aid with
eating.
Both female and male pigs reach sexual maturing around eight
months of age and breed constantly throughout the year. The average litter of
piglets consists of six to twelve offspring. Female pigs go into heat every
three weeks if they are not pregnant making a new pigs great breeders who
replenish their numbers quickly.