* Temperature Regulation: Pigs lack sweat glands and rely on mud to cool themselves down, especially in hot weather. The mud acts as a natural sunscreen and helps them stay cool by evaporating water.
* Protection from Pests: The mud can help protect them from insects and parasites.
* Social Behavior: Pigs are social animals and mud can be a way for them to interact and play with each other.
* Skin Health: Mud can help moisturize their skin and prevent dryness.
So, while some pigs might enjoy the feeling of mud on their skin, it's primarily a practical behavior driven by necessity.
Furthermore, pigs raised in clean and comfortable environments might not have the same need or desire to get dirty.