Wild boar and wild boar-domestic pig hybrids raised for specialty meat markets have strong maternal instincts that create acute welfare conflicts when management separates sows from piglets prematurely.
Wild boar maternal behaviour is complex and highly motivated, meaning that management systems designed for domestic pigs are often poorly suited to their welfare needs. Sows deprived of nesting materials and space show prolonged frustration and stereotypic behaviours. Premature piglet separation causes acute distress that can persist for days. Welfare-centred wild boar farming requires larger spaces, natural substrates, extended lactation periods, and management by people trained in wild boar ethology rather than standard pig husbandry.