ROCKY MOUNTAIN KUNEKUNES

Breeding
Kunekune boars are late to mature compared to most pig breeds. Most do not start to mature until at least 8 months of age. They generally will not become fertile until about 12 months of age. They usually do not reach full adult maturity until around 2 years old. Gilts may become pregnant as early as 6 months, but strongly recommended that they not be mated until they are at least a year old. Kunekunes grow very slow their 1st year. They need time to mature before becoming pregnant. Kunekune gilts and sows cycle every 18-21 days. During estrus her vulva will swell and there may be a slight discharge. One way to tell if she is "in" is to put pressure on her back. If she stands, more than likely she is estrus. Boar's reactions also indicate estrus. He will be excited and "talking to her".
Gestation last 3 months 3 weeks and 3 days or for kunekunes around 116 days. About a week before farrowing she should be moved away from other kunekunes to a clean stall or pen. As the time gets closer, she may begin to "nest" (collecting straw and other matter to make her bed), milk will come in 12-24 hours prior to farrowing. She will become restless and may have a slight vaginal discharge. When you see these signs, she is about to begin heavy labor. Piglets should be born every 20 minutes or so. Kunekune sows are excellent mothers and usually do not have trouble giving birth. The average size of kunekune litters is 6 to 8 piglets. Piglets must have colostrum within the first 4 hours of birth, preferably within the 1st hour.
Piglets need to stay warm. Heat lamps strategically placed (in corner sectioned off from the sow) will help them stay warm. Piglets are born with their eyes and ears open. Quickly after birth they will begin to search out a teat. If a piglet is born not breathing but has a heartbeat, clear the piglet's mouth and nose of any fluids or membrane. To remove fluids hold piglet carefully upside down and gently swing back and forth, then clear nose and mouth. If piglet is still not breathing, hold mouth shut and gently blow into nostrils.
Piglets will rely on their mother's milk solely for a couple of weeks. Some really vigorous piglets will start eating solid food right away. Piglets are generally weaned around 8 weeks of age. Piglets should be healthy and eating on their own prior to weaning.