The welfare and hair cortisol concentration of pigs in mixed organic farms

Abstract

This study examined the welfare and stress levels of Krškopolje pigs in mixed organic farming systems by measuring hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) across seasons and housing conditions. Pigs were grouped based on whether they were kept indoors, outdoors, or switched seasonally. Results showed that winter conditions increased stress levels (higher HCC), especially in pigs housed outdoors year-round. In contrast, pigs housed indoors during winter and outdoors in warmer months had better welfare scores and lower stress. Seasonal changes had a greater impact than sex, and overall welfare improved in spring and stayed high. The study suggests that alternating housing systems based on season can enhance pig welfare in organic farming