Fauna
Mammal

Domestic Pig

Sus scrofa domesticus

Also known as Swine, Hog, Farm Pig, Domestic Swine

Domestic pigs are remarkably intelligent, social mammals that form complex hierarchies and communicate through a rich vocabulary of grunts and squeals. Sows build elaborate nests before birthing and nurse their piglets in a strict, lifelong teat order. Domesticated independently in both the Near East and East Asia over nine thousand years ago, they now thrive on every inhabited continent.

DomesticatedOmnivorousIntelligent
Domestic Pig reference1 / 6
(c) Jacqui Geux, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyRoots, Insects, Grains
Predators
  • Wolves
  • Bears
  • Humans
ThreatsAfrican swine fever, intensive breeding health issues, welfare concerns
HabitatsFarms, pastures, agricultural land, and feral woodlands
Life span15–20 years
Classification
  1. OrderArtiodactyla
  2. FamilySuidae
  3. GenusSus
  4. SpeciesSus scrofa domesticus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Large individuals can bite or charge if cornered; maintain a safe distance around protective sows.
Why it is dangerous
Strong jaws, sharp teeth, and massive body weight can cause serious crush injuries or severe bite wounds.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for stocky, heavy-bodied ungulates with broad snouts, small eyes, and coarse bristly hair.
What to do
Give maternal sows with piglets plenty of space and avoid entering enclosures without clear exit routes.
Responsible observation
  • Observe Behavior: Watch for soft grunting and tail wagging, which indicate a calm and curious state.
  • Respect Sows: Keep a generous distance from mothers with young piglets to avoid triggering protective aggression.
  • Secure Food: Store feed securely, as pigs have an exceptional sense of smell and will push gates for treats.
Related species
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