Hybrid pig and sheep: characteristics of the breed, care and maintenance of mangalic

Today there are many interesting breeds of animals that are the result of many years of selection and the work of scientists. One of these species is considered unusual pigs resembling sheep. They are often referred to as a pig-sheep hybrid. But in fact, they are a combination of an ordinary domestic pig and wild boars of a rare variety. This breed is called Mangalitsa and is considered an endangered species.

History

The pig, which resembles a sheep, was bred in Hungary in the early nineteenth century. This breed is called Mangalitsa. Its representatives are distinguished by their original wavy fur coat.Because pigs are often confused with sheep. In fact, they were crossed with reed boars and large red shalontay pigs.

Representatives of this breed are characterized by rapid weight gain and do not cause difficulties in care. They are characterized by tasty dietary meat and a unique appearance. That is why animals gained popularity first in Hungary and then all over the world.

Characteristics and features of the breed

This pig is characterized by a dense but light skeleton. At the same time, representatives of this breed are distinguished by large sizes. At 1 year old, a piglet already weighs 160 kilograms. Adult animals even reach 3 centners. All individuals are characterized by excellent muscle mass and contain a minimum amount of fat.

A characteristic feature of animals is the presence of thick and long hair. It provides reliable protection from the cold. There is a fluffy brush on the tail. Moreover, the base is dark, and the end is white.

The breed is characterized by seasonal hair loss. In the summer, pigs get rid of their down. At the same time, dark bristles form rings. The coat becomes less rigid and provides protection to animals from parasites. If a pig retains a thick white coat in summer, this indicates improper feeding.

Pigs of this breed have different colors:

white - it accounts for 80% of the total livestock;
black;
gray;
red - are considered the most rare;
mixed.

Red, black and mixed species are considered the rarest. They are bred exclusively by breeding farms. White pigs have a dark patch and the same coat around the eyes. Many breeders believe that animals are able to change their color according to the conditions of detention.

Purebreds should have a large black patch at the bottom of the right ear. As the pet grows, it merges with the general color.

The shape of the head is also considered a distinctive feature of the breed. It is distinguished by its medium size, snub-nosed snout and forward-pointing ears. Animals are characterized by dark eyes and eyebrows. Pigs are considered to be very hardy. They are able to pasture for a long time and easily remember the way home.

Main advantages and disadvantages

Animals have many virtues that make them popular with farmers:

excellent taste of meat, it contains a large amount of vitamins and minerals;
resistance to low temperatures - associated with the presence of wool;
fast weight gain;
omnivorous animals - they will be happy to eat different types of food;
strong immunity - piglets do not need preventive vaccinations;
possibility of using undercoat for knitting;
non-standard appearance;
cleanliness - animals do not have an unpleasant odor.

At the same time, representatives of this breed also have disadvantages:

rarity - finding a purebred pig is very problematic;
high cost of piglets;
need for walking on green grass;
long period of growing up.

How to keep and care for

These pigs are resistant to low temperatures. This is due to the presence of curly hair. Therefore, it is permissible to keep animals even in poorly heated rooms. When raising pets, you should follow these recommendations:

Provide plenty of space for walking. It is important that animals have access to green grass.
Use sun and weather protection.
Ensure constant access to clean water. Pigs should be able to drink and bathe.
Maintain a suitable microclimate in the room. Regular airing is important.

What do hybrids feed on

Representatives of this breed are considered absolutely omnivores. However, in addition to pasture, they are recommended to give root crops, steamed feed grains, boiled and raw vegetables. Pigs also like to eat chestnuts, acorns, corn.

It is important to consider that mangalics are strictly forbidden to overeat. They do not know the sense of proportion. Therefore, during the day, the piglet is able to gain 700-800 grams of weight.

Features of breeding

If you plan to breed such pigs, it is important to consider that it is very difficult to find purebred representatives of the breed. In addition, they are expensive. Unscrupulous breeders often crossbreed Mangalits with ordinary domestic pigs. As a consequence, they lose their tribal characteristics. Therefore, when buying piglets, you should familiarize yourself with their pedigree.

It is worth buying piglets at 4-5 weeks. At this stage, vegetables and cereals are already present in their diet. Young animals should definitely be given bone meal. He also needs red clay. These products improve the growth of pets.Females mature at 6 months. The period of gestation by a sow of piglets lasts 4 months. The next crossing with a male is permissible 5-6 days after the birth of the cubs.

Frequent diseases

Representatives of this breed are resistant to common diseases. Therefore, they do not need to be vaccinated.To minimize the risk of developing pathologies, it is worth insulating pigsties. It is also important to avoid drafts and direct sunlight. Strict adherence to sanitary standards is important. Mangalitsa pigs resemble sheep in appearance and are considered a source of tasty and he althy meat. For these rare animals to be successful, they need to provide the right conditions.