[Clive]

Hi all,
Strudel, our OSB gilt is due to farrow in a couple of weeks. She is accommodated in an ark, with constant access to her paddock. We are modifying the Ark to add removable creep bars and are pretty confident that our preparations are about right, except for one thing. I have been advised to form a small area outside the ark with a short fence that strudel can step over but the piglets can't. I know many people don't worry about this but I wondered if you had any thoughts, either about the necessity for the barrier or for its construction. After the wet spring, the ground outside the ark is pretty rough so it might be possible for a piglet to wander off and get lost.

Thanks in advance

[Hassle]

Cut off from a scaffolding plank with some angle iron in the corners bolted to the front of the ark?

[hughesy]

We've never used anything like that. Ours are free to come out as soon as they're ready and none have ever come to any harm.

[Fowgill Farm]

google farrowing ark fenders
mandy

[Clive]

Thanks for your replies. Decided not to bother with the barrier. They are two days old and they have already ventured just outside, but only when mum is nearby and we are not!

[Berkshire Boy]

I don't bother with anything, mum will always be keeping a watchful eye on the little ones.