Here's a breakdown of common behaviors:
Social Interactions:
* Dominance displays: Sows establish dominance through a variety of signals, including:
* Snorting and grunting: A way to assert their presence and warn others to back off.
* Pushing and shoving: A physical demonstration of dominance, especially common in competition for food or space.
* Mount attempts: Though not always sexual in nature, mounting can be a way to assert dominance.
* Tail wagging: Often paired with snorting and grunting, a more subtle way to express dominance.
* Affiliative behaviors: Sows also engage in behaviors that indicate positive social interactions, like:
* Snuggling and nuzzling: Shows bonding and affection between sows.
* Mutual grooming: Preening each other's fur, helps maintain hygiene and strengthens social bonds.
* Playing: Sows, especially younger ones, engage in playful behaviors like chasing and wrestling.
Reproductive behavior:
* Estrus cycle: Sows are polyestrous, meaning they cycle regularly throughout the year. During estrus, they exhibit distinct behaviors:
* Standing heat: Sows will stand still when mounted by a boar, signaling their receptiveness.
* Increased vocalization: Sows in heat tend to vocalize more frequently, especially towards boars.
* Seeking out boars: Sows in heat actively seek out boars for mating.
Other factors:
* Age: Younger sows are often more playful and less assertive than older sows.
* Individual personality: Just like humans, pigs have unique personalities. Some sows are more outgoing and social, while others are more shy and withdrawn.
* Social group: Sows in large groups will often form tight-knit bonds with specific individuals, while others may be more solitary.
Important Note: While female pigs exhibit a variety of social behaviors, it's essential to remember that each pig is an individual. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how female pigs interact with each other.