You will notice that our pigs are not overly FAT! Most pig owners/breeders over feed and often feed unhealthy "junk" to their pigs. Yes, they're incredibly round, but that is not in any way a part of our goal for the pigs at Higher Ground. It seems that people have forgotten what healthy looks like, but our pigs can run and play and they are aware of where they put their bodies instead of plopping down. We feed a small amount (2-4c per pig, per day) of feed in addition to their pasture grasses and weeds (their favorite thing is duck weed from around the pond). After farrowing we give the mamas warming oats for added carbs, lactation support and to warm their core after birth. We also give them Calcium rich Chaffhaye, along with nutrient packed Blackstrap Molasses in their water. This gives them what their bodies need during that stage of life. Our pigs are NOT loaded up with chemical de-wormers, and yes, they do manage a NORMAL worm load. It is impossible and unwarranted to eliminate all worms from pigs. We employ the anti-parasitic benefits of Black Walnut and other vermifuge herbs as needed. A pig that can't handle a normal worm load shouldn't be reproducing and passing that weakness onto offspring. We feel very strongly about not breeding weak animals.
ABOUT THE BREED
A heritage breed from New Zealand once near extinction, Kunekues are now growing in number and gaining popularity among small farms, in sustainable farming systems, in permaculture designs, etc. Kunekune pigs are unique in that they are relatively small, not prone to root or roam, typically extremely docile in temperament, and suitable for small acreage and homesteads.
Known as the "grazing pig," Kunekunes are extremely efficient on grass and hay with little need for supplemental feed. Kitchen and garden scraps help to fill in any gaps. Feeding corn or soy may make them too fat and will change their fatty acid profile.
Meet Our Breeding Sows/Gilts
Four Y Acres - Hildegard von Bingen "Hilda" (AKKPS 10117)
Higher Ground - Good Golly Miss Molly (AKKPS 15070)
Snake Doctor Farm - Espresso (AKKPS 27767)
Carlisle Acres - Lardy Latte (AKKPS 27743)
Meet Our Breeding Boars
Snake Doctor Farm - Clyde (AKKPS 22463)
Boris/BH Rebecca Gina X Momona/Whakanui DOB: 12/12/21 Ginger/Black, Double Wattles Clyde is large and in charge but his personality is as sweet as pie! Could he be the perfect boar?!
MB Alvin Ranch - Tex (AKKPS 10118)
BH Tutaki/Jenny X Kereopa/Boris DOB: 5/15/2019 Black/White, Double Wattles Tex is a love bug, for sure! Appropriately named, this sweet guy is straight from Texas. The first time I saw his pic when considering piglets, I nicknamed him "Mr. Floppy Ears." His ears aren't the only thing I like about him, though. He has over all good looks, with good proportions and strength.
Higher Ground - Chickory (AKKPS 10723)
Mahia Love/Trish X Jenny/Andrew DOB: 03/09/2020 Ginger/Black, Double Wattles Our homegrown boar out of Maegan and Chestnut has that short, boxy build I love, and a round head/face and nice feet. He is an improved version of his dad plus he carries his mom's size so we had to keep him! I need to take a better more current pic, but you know... always chores to do.