Environmental complexity in pig pens provides welfare benefits beyond basic enrichment. Pens with varied structure and varied activities support more complete behavioral expression.
Pigs in complex pen environments that include varied structures, multiple activity zones, and opportunities for social avoidance express a richer behavioral repertoire than pigs in barren enclosures. The welfare benefits of pen complexity are measurable through reduced stress hormones and increased positive behaviors. Design investment in pen complexity delivers welfare returns that simple enrichment provision alone cannot match.