These systems allow sows and litters to mix before weaning. Under natural conditions, sows would leave their nest sites and rejoin the herd approximately 7-14 days after farrowing. Piglets would then integrate with other litters before they are weaned.
Group systems are regarded as being low-cost systems compared to individual pens which require more “pen furniture”, contributing to additional costs.
Deep Litter Group System
Multi-suckle accommodation based on the traditional Swedish deep litter systems.
Group Lactation System
Group lactation system developed by Wageningen UR and intended for commercial adoption.
Two-Stage Group System
The system uses designed individual pens (e.g. PigSAFE) for farrowing and then sows and litters are grouped from 10d for the remainder of lactation.
