Farm foreman Nigel Elliott experienced ground hog day when Portly the pig – a sow that he has adopted as his own – brought embarrassment upon him once again.
Most of the pigs at Cannon Hall Farm have between 12 & 18 piglets each litter but Portly for the second time running had just 5.
Nigel is quick to remind me that they are 5 really good ones but these are the lowest numbers born by any pig for 5 years so to do it twice is exceptional. Could Nigel be hampering Portlys production with kindness (over feeding)?
It is a proven fact that overfeeding leads to poor fertility and Nigel is known for giving his favourite extra helpings.
Portly will now have to go on a strict diet in readiness for her next litter which will be born in February next year.
Robert the Farmer
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