Ear and flank biting
Why is it measured?
Ear and flank biting behaviour has a similar aetiology to that of tail biting, indicating that the environment is insufficient to meet the behavioural and / or physiological needs of the pig, for example a lack of sufficient manipulable substrate or insufficient space. The presence of lesions is likely to be associated with pain and may additionally provide a route to infection.
How to assess and score using the AssureWel measure
| Ear and flank biting (dry sows and finishing pigs) Pen measure |
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Observation:
Record:
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Assess all animals in pen
If ear biting (EB) lesions are present, and
If flank biting (FB) lesions are present
Typical fight or clambering / mounting lesions show parallel lines, while lesions from flank biting are typically round.
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