Kune Kune Pigs
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Physical Description:
Kune kune pigs are a relatively small breed of domestic pig. These pigs can come in various colors, such as cream, ginger, black, brown, and white, and their hair textures range from smooth to coarse and curly. Their coats can be spotted or solid in color. Additionally, their hair gets warmer or thicker depending on the season, and they often shed hair in warmer months. Many kune kune pigs have small, fleshy wattles on either side of their faces that hang from either side of their faces. They also have curly tails and semi-lopped ears.
Size:
Compared to many breeds of domestic pig, kune kunes are on the smaller side. Adults can reach up to 4 feet long and about 24 inches tall. Adult female kune kune pigs ("sows") typically weigh between 120-200 pounds, while adult males ("boars") can grow up to 200-300 pounds.
Native Habitat:
As the domestic cousins of wild boars, pigs can thrive in a variety of habitats. The exact point of origin of the kune kune breed is unknown; however, the pigs similar traits with other breeds of domestic pigs found in Asia, South America, and the Polynesian Islands. It is believed that some percentage of the ancestors of modern kune kune pigs were brought to New Zealand in the 19th century by whalers and were later traded with the Māori people.
Lifespan:
Kune kune pigs usually live about 15-20 years.
Communication:
Kune kune pigs have many ways to communicate with other pigs, including vocalization, body language and scent markings. A low-pitched, contented grunting noise often means the pigs are relaxed. They also make this noise when they meet each other. High-pitched vocalizations mean the pigs are expressing stress or anxiety. These pigs also wag their tails and wiggle their ears to signal their emotions.
Food/Eating Habits:
Domestic pigs are naturally omnivores, but most kune kune pigs raised on captivity are herbivores. Kune kunes are capable of eating a wide variety of vegetation, including grass, hay, grains, romaine lettuce and vegetables like tomatoes. Unlike other pigs, kune kunes do not specifically eat by foraging and can live exclusively on well-maintained pasture grass. Their short snouts make them great at grazing.
Sleep Habits:
They typically are active during the day and sleep at night. They do tend to have several naps during they day, cuddled up with each other.
Social Structure:
Kune kune pigs are a domesticated species and are very social animals. In addition to forming complex social relationships with other pigs, kune kunes are accustomed to human companionship and are usually quite friendly toward humans. These pigs are known for being intelligent, playful and affectionate.
Reproduction And Development:
Kune kune pigs breed throughout the year. Females reach sexual maturity at around 10 months old and males at around a year. Females have a gestation period of about 116 days, after which they give birth to litters of 6-12 piglets. Kune kunes take longer to grow into their adult size than other breeds of domestic pig.