High number of hours of sunshine and High air pressure
What To Look For:
Likely to be observed as seasonal increases in tailbiting in late summer, espeically following an extended spell of sunny days with high air pressure (warm, still weather)
Additional information:
Likely to be observed as seasonal increases in tail biting in late summer, especially following an extended spell of sunny days with high air pressure (warm, still weather).
In straw units this increases the risk of tail biting, likely to be due to the weather conditions contributing to warm, humid conditions in the pens (where buildings have limited ventilation options).
Suggestions:
Whilst the weather cannot be controlled, its impact on the pigs can be managed. If tail biting on the unit is more likely to increase if the weather turns in hot and still, consider additional ventilation measures to improve airflow through the pens (eg replacing solid gates with barred gates, opening additional windows, removing galebreaker).
Additional measures to help cool the pigs would include sprinkler systems or misters (provided there is sufficient airflow to remove humid air). Shading windows and other air inlets would reduce the amount of warm air entering the building. Where roof vents are present, ensure that these are well cleaned for good airflow, and the correct height above the roof.
Additional material:
Action for productivity 21. Ventilation http://pork.ahdb.org.uk/media/2048/Action-21-Ventilation.pdf
AHDB Pork Ventilation Guide http://pork.ahdb.org.uk/environment-buildings/pig-buildings-housing-development/ventilation/ventilating-pig-buildings-guide/