The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Livestock => Pigs => Topic started by: Dean Weaver on June 12, 2016, 01:03:04 am
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Hello, I was looking for people's views on what pig feed to use. I keep Saddlebacks & Gloustershire old spot, I keep them very much free range in woodland. I'm currently feeding Olymipic 601 what's your views please.
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I don't know that feed - what's the composition and protein content like?
Traditional breeds don't need a high level protein, somewhere between 12 and 16% is where I'd be aiming for - higher than that they'll just lay down fat.
What age they are and the quantity they get will also have a lot to do with how they grow. The old rule of 1lb per month of age (up to 6 months) is the easiest one to follow, but with GOS & SB I'd probably reduce it a little. Keeping them free range will help with condition - if they have lots of space to roam they should hopefully be nice and lean. Unfortunately the only way to know for sure is when they're on the butchers hook :-\ but if you can't feel their ribs or backbone it's time to cut back ;)
HTH