# Pig Farm Lighting Programs: Photoperiod and Intensity for Production ## Key Takeaways - Optimal photoperiods vary by pig stage: gestating sows benefit from 8-10 hours of light to maintain body condition, while lactating sows and piglets require 16-18 hours to stimulate feed intake and nursing. Nursery and grow-finish pigs, as well as boars, are best managed with 12-14 hours of light daily for growth and reproductive performance, respectively. - Light intensity, measured in lux at pig eye level (0.5-0.8m height), is critical for vision, behavior, and performance. Recommended intensities range from 100-150 lux for nursery and grow-finish pigs, and 150-200 lux for breeding herds and farrowing areas to support observation and activity. - Consistent light quality is essential; use neutral white light (4000K-5000K) and avoid flickering, which can induce stress and reduce feed intake. Uniform light distribution within pens, with no more than 30% variation, is crucial to prevent dark spots and associated behavioral issues like aggression. - Implementing and monitoring lighting programs requires regular measurement of light intensity and photoperiod accuracy, with fixture cleaning every three months and prompt replacement of faulty components to maintain optimal conditions and energy efficiency. - Lighting programs directly impact pig welfare and worker safety; adequate lighting (minimum 200 lux in walkways) reduces accident risks for personnel, while appropriate light-dark cycles support natural diurnal rhythms and reduce stress in pigs. - Biosecurity and food safety are enhanced by proper lighting, which aids in disease observation, cleaning effectiveness, and contamination detection in handling and processing areas, supporting technologies like automated cleaning systems. --- This article reviews lighting requirements for different pig stages, including photoperiod length and light intensity recommendations for barns. Swine producers can use this information to design or evaluate lighting programs that support growth, reproduction, and welfare while managing energy costs. The focus is on practical decisions about light duration (photoperiod) and brightness (intensity) for breeding herds, nursery pigs, and grow-finish animals. ## At a Glance: Lighting Recommendations by Pig Stage | Pig Stage | Recommended Photoperiod (hours light/day) | Recommended Light Intensity (lux) | Primary Production Goal | |-----------|-------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------|-------------------------| | Gestating sows | 8 to 10 | 150 to 200 | Maintain body condition, reduce stress | | Lactating sows and piglets | 16 to 18 | 150 to 200 | Stimulate feed intake, support piglet growth | | Weaned nursery pigs | 12 to 14 | 100 to 150 | Encourage feeding behavior, reduce aggression | | Grow-finish pigs | 12 to 14 | 100 to 150 | Maximize daily gain, improve feed efficiency | | Boars | 12 to 14 | 150 to 200 | Maintain libido and semen quality | These ranges are based on published research and field experience. Individual farm conditions, genetics, and housing systems may require adjustment. Measure light intensity at pig eye level in the pen, not at the fixture. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides ongoing research into animal production systems that informs these recommendations (www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). ## Photoperiod Effects on Sow Reproduction The duration of light exposure each day influences reproductive hormones in sows. Extended photoperiods during lactation can improve feed intake and reduce weight loss, which supports subsequent litter size. Short photoperiods during gestation may help maintain body condition and reduce metabolic demands. The Merck Veterinary Manual covers management and nutrition principles relevant to lighting effects on swine reproduction (www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition). ### Gestation Photoperiod Management For gestating sows, a photoperiod of 8 to 10 hours of light per day is commonly used. This shorter day length mimics natural winter conditions and may reduce activity levels, conserving energy for fetal development. Sows housed in individual stalls or group pens benefit from consistent light schedules. Sudden changes in photoperiod can disrupt hormone cycles and should be avoided. Record the daily on and off times for each gestation barn section and note any deviations due to power outages or timer failures. ### Lactation Photoperiod Management Lactating sows and their litters benefit from longer photoperiods of 16 to 18 hours of light per day. Extended light exposure stimulates feed intake in sows, which supports milk production and reduces body condition loss. Piglets also benefit from increased light, as it encourages nursing behavior and helps them locate the udder. Provide a dim night period of 6 to 8 hours to allow rest. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on animal production systems that include housing and environmental management considerations (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Boar Photoperiod Considerations Boars require consistent photoperiods of 12 to 14 hours of light per day to maintain libido and semen quality. Light intensity should be 150 to 200 lux at boar eye level. Irregular light schedules can reduce mating behavior and sperm production. If boar performance declines after a lighting change, review photoperiod records and consult a veterinarian. ## Light Intensity Requirements for Swine Barns Light intensity, measured in lux, affects pig vision, behavior, and performance. Pigs have dichromatic vision and are sensitive to light levels. Insufficient intensity can reduce feed intake and increase fear responses. Excessive intensity may cause stress or discomfort. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service provides information on swine health management that includes housing environment considerations (www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine). ### Measuring Light Intensity Use a handheld lux meter to measure light levels at pig eye height, approximately 0.5 to 0.8 meters above the floor depending on pig size. Take readings at multiple locations within each pen, including feeding areas, resting areas, and near waterers. Record the average and minimum values. Light intensity should be uniform across the pen, with no more than a 30 percent variation between the brightest and dimmest areas. Take measurements at the same time of day for consistency. ### Minimum Intensity Guidelines For most production stages, a minimum of 100 lux at pig eye level is recommended. Breeding and farrowing areas may require 150 to 200 lux to support observation of estrus, farrowing, and piglet health. Nursery and grow-finish barns can operate at 100 to 150 lux. Lower intensities may be acceptable during the night period, but complete darkness should be avoided to allow pigs to move safely. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include environmental enrichment and housing standards (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Color Temperature and Light Quality Choose light fixtures with a color temperature between 4000K and 5000K, which provides neutral white light that supports pig vision. Warmer colors (below 3000K) may appear dim to pigs, while cooler colors (above 6000K) can cause glare. Avoid fixtures with visible flicker, as pigs can detect frequencies that humans cannot. Flickering lights can cause stress and reduce feed intake. ## Lighting Program Implementation Steps Implementing a lighting program requires planning, equipment selection, and ongoing monitoring. Follow these steps to establish or improve lighting in your barn. ### Step 1: Assess Current Lighting Walk through each barn section during the day and night. Measure light intensity at pig eye level in multiple pens. Note any areas with shadows, flickering, or uneven light distribution. Record the current photoperiod settings and any timers or controllers in use. Document the age and type of all fixtures. ### Step 2: Set Photoperiod Targets Based on the pig stage in each barn section, select the appropriate photoperiod from the table above. Use programmable timers or lighting controllers to automate the on-off schedule. Ensure the timer has a battery backup to maintain settings during power outages. Set gradual transitions of 15 to 30 minutes for dawn and dusk effects. ### Step 3: Adjust Light Fixtures Replace or reposition fixtures to achieve target intensity. Use LED or fluorescent lights with a color temperature between 4000K and 5000K. Clean fixtures regularly to maintain output. Consider adding reflective surfaces or white paint on walls to improve light distribution. Space fixtures evenly to avoid dark spots. ### Step 4: Monitor and Record Check light intensity monthly and after any equipment changes. Record photoperiod settings, intensity readings, and any pig behavior observations. Keep a log for each barn section. If pigs show signs of stress, reduced feed intake, or poor reproductive performance, review lighting data as part of the investigation. ## Records and Measurements Maintain accurate records to track lighting program effectiveness and identify problems early. The following measurements are useful. ### Photoperiod Log Record the daily on and off times for each barn section. Note any deviations due to power outages, timer failures, or manual overrides. Include the date, section, and reason for any change. Review logs weekly to catch timer drift or battery failure. ### Light Intensity Log Record intensity readings at pig eye level for each pen or representative pens. Include the date, time of day, fixture type, and any cleaning or maintenance performed. Compare readings to target ranges and note any areas that fall below minimums. Track intensity trends over time to identify gradual declines from dust accumulation or bulb aging. ### Pig Performance Records Link lighting data to production records such as farrowing rate, litter size, weaning weight, daily gain, and feed conversion. If performance declines in a specific barn section, check whether lighting changes preceded the decline. Use a spreadsheet or farm management software to correlate lighting data with production outcomes. ### Energy Consumption Records Track electrical consumption for lighting separately from other barn loads. Compare monthly usage to baseline values. If consumption increases unexpectedly, check for fixture failures, timer malfunctions, or changes in photoperiod settings. Research on electrical and thermal energy consumption in midwest commercial swine facilities provides context for expected lighting energy use (Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2018, doi.org/10.13031/aea.12771). ## Common Failure Patterns Several common problems can reduce the effectiveness of lighting programs. Recognizing these patterns helps producers take corrective action quickly. ### Inconsistent Photoperiod Timers that drift or lose power can cause irregular light schedules. Pigs exposed to varying day lengths may show reduced feed intake or disrupted estrus cycles. Check timers weekly and replace batteries annually. Install backup batteries on all programmable timers. ### Low Light Intensity Dust accumulation on fixtures, aging bulbs, or incorrect fixture placement can reduce intensity below target levels. Clean fixtures every three months and replace bulbs according to manufacturer recommendations. Measure intensity after cleaning to confirm improvement. If intensity remains low, consider upgrading to higher-output fixtures. ### Uneven Light Distribution Fixtures spaced too far apart or blocked by equipment can create dark spots in pens. Pigs may avoid dark areas, leading to crowding and aggression. Rearrange fixtures or add supplemental lighting to eliminate shadows. Use reflective surfaces on walls and ceilings to improve distribution. ### Flickering or Strobing Faulty ballasts or incompatible LED drivers can cause flickering that is visible to pigs but not to humans. Flickering can cause stress and reduce feed intake. Replace faulty components immediately. Choose LED fixtures with high-quality drivers that are rated for agricultural environments. ### Timer Drift Mechanical timers can drift over time, causing photoperiods to shift gradually. Electronic timers with battery backup are more reliable. Check actual on-off times against programmed settings monthly. Replace mechanical timers with digital models when they fail. ## Welfare and Safety Context Lighting programs affect pig welfare and worker safety. Proper lighting supports natural behaviors, reduces stress, and allows pigs to express normal activity patterns. ### Pig Welfare Considerations Pigs are diurnal animals that benefit from a predictable light-dark cycle. Extended photoperiods during lactation support piglet survival by encouraging nursing. Dim night periods allow rest and reduce aggression. Avoid sudden changes in light level, such as turning all lights on or off at once. Use gradual dimming or step changes over 15 to 30 minutes. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include environmental management guidelines (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Worker Safety Adequate lighting in barns reduces the risk of slips, trips, and falls for workers. Provide at least 200 lux in walkways, alleys, and handling areas. Use shatterproof fixtures in areas where pigs can reach them. Emergency lighting should be available in case of power failure. Install emergency lights with battery backup at exits and in main alleys. ### Biosecurity Implications Lighting can influence biosecurity by affecting pig behavior and cleaning effectiveness. Well-lit barns allow workers to observe sick pigs and identify biosecurity breaches. Automated cleaning systems that use object detection perform better under consistent lighting conditions. A study developing a YOLOv9-based model for identifying pig feces on pig skin used a dataset of 5,404 images collected under various lighting and cleanliness conditions, achieving a mAP_0.5 of 70.5 percent, precision of 70.6 percent, and recall of 72.1 percent (Jurnal Teknik Informatika, 2025, doi.org/10.52436/1.jutif.2025.6.2.4240). The model faced challenges in distinguishing pig skin patterns from feces and managing false positives caused by similar-looking objects in the barn environment. Integrating this model into an automated cleaning system can reduce human-pig contact by up to 76 percent, which is expected to significantly lower the risk of [African swine fever](/knowledge/bioinformatics/african-swine-fever-computational-models-for-early-detection-and-spread-prediction-in-wild-boar-populations) transmission. Consistent lighting supports these technologies. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Considerations Proper lighting in processing and handling areas supports food safety by allowing workers to identify contamination and perform thorough cleaning. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on animal production and food safety standards (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Ensure that lighting fixtures in feed storage and preparation areas are sealed to prevent contamination from broken glass or debris. ## Energy Management and Equipment Selection Lighting accounts for a portion of electrical energy consumption in swine facilities. Selecting efficient fixtures and using controls can reduce costs without compromising pig performance. ### Fixture Types LED fixtures are the most energy-efficient option for swine barns. They have a long lifespan, produce minimal heat, and are available in shatterproof designs. Fluorescent fixtures are a lower-cost alternative but require more frequent replacement and contain mercury. Incandescent bulbs are inefficient and not recommended for production areas. Choose fixtures with an IP rating of at least IP65 for dust and moisture resistance. ### Lighting Controls Use programmable timers or photocells to automate photoperiods. Dimmers can provide gradual transitions between light and dark. Motion sensors in infrequently used areas, such as storage rooms, can reduce energy waste. Consider installing separate circuits for different barn sections to allow stage-specific photoperiods. Centralized lighting control systems allow remote monitoring and adjustment. ### Energy Monitoring Track electrical consumption for lighting separately from other barn loads. Compare monthly usage to baseline values. If consumption increases unexpectedly, check for fixture failures, timer malfunctions, or changes in photoperiod settings. Research on electrical and thermal energy consumption in midwest commercial swine facilities provides benchmarks for expected lighting energy use (Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2018, doi.org/10.13031/aea.12771). ### Fixture Placement and Spacing Proper fixture placement ensures uniform light distribution. Space fixtures at a distance equal to the mounting height above pig eye level. For example, if fixtures are mounted 3 meters above the floor and pig eye level is 0.5 meters, the mounting height is 2.5 meters, so fixtures should be spaced no more than 2.5 meters apart. Use light modeling software or consult a lighting specialist for complex barn layouts. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Some lighting problems require professional assistance. Contact a lighting specialist, agricultural engineer, or veterinarian in the following situations. ### When to Call a Lighting Specialist - Light intensity readings are consistently below target despite cleaning and fixture replacement. - Fixtures fail repeatedly or show signs of electrical problems such as flickering or tripping breakers. - You are designing a new barn or major renovation and need help with fixture layout and photoperiod control. - You need to integrate lighting with automated monitoring or control systems. ### When to Call a Veterinarian - Reproductive performance declines after a lighting change, and no other management factors have changed. - Pigs show signs of stress, such as increased aggression, reduced feed intake, or poor growth, that cannot be explained by other causes. - You suspect that lighting is contributing to health problems, such as eye irritation or skin lesions. - Pigs show abnormal behavior patterns that may be related to photoperiod disruption. ### When to Call an Agricultural Engineer - You need to integrate lighting with ventilation, heating, or other barn systems. - You are considering automated monitoring or control systems that require technical expertise. - Energy consumption is higher than expected, and you need help identifying inefficiencies. - You are designing a new barn or major renovation and need help with electrical load calculations. ## Practical Decision Framework for Lighting Program Adjustments Producers often need to adjust lighting programs in response to changing pig performance, seasonal conditions, or facility modifications. A structured decision framework helps ensure that adjustments are based on evidence instead of assumptions. This framework uses a stepwise approach to identify problems, test solutions, and verify outcomes before making permanent changes. ### Step 1: Define the Performance Signal Before adjusting any lighting parameter, document the specific performance issue. Common signals include reduced feed intake over three consecutive days, lower farrowing rates compared to the previous six-month average, increased aggression in group housing, or slower growth rates in nursery or grow-finish pigs. Record the affected barn section, pig stage, duration of the problem, and any other management changes that occurred at the same time. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides ongoing research into animal production systems that can help producers understand expected performance benchmarks (www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). ### Step 2: Rule Out Non-Lighting Causes Lighting changes should only be made after excluding other common causes of performance decline. Check ventilation rates, temperature setpoints, feed quality and availability, water flow rates, stocking density, and health status. Review records for recent vaccinations, feed changes, or personnel changes. If a health problem is suspected, consult a veterinarian before adjusting lighting. The Merck Veterinary Manual covers management and nutrition principles relevant to swine health assessment (www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition). ### Step 3: Measure Current Lighting Conditions Take baseline measurements before making any adjustments. Use a calibrated lux meter to measure light intensity at pig eye level in at least five locations per pen, including feeding, resting, and drinking areas. Record the average, minimum, and maximum values. Check photoperiod accuracy by verifying timer settings against actual on-off times over three consecutive days. Document fixture cleanliness, bulb age, and any visible flicker or uneven distribution. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service provides information on swine health management that includes housing environment considerations (www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine). ### Step 4: Select One Variable to Change Change only one lighting variable at a time. If both photoperiod and intensity are adjusted simultaneously, it is impossible to determine which change caused the observed effect. Common single-variable adjustments include extending or shortening photoperiod by one to two hours, increasing or decreasing intensity by 20 to 50 lux, or improving uniformity by adding or repositioning fixtures. Document the new target values and the date of implementation. ### Step 5: Implement the Change Gradually Sudden changes in lighting can stress pigs and disrupt behavior. For photoperiod adjustments, shift the on or off time by 15 to 30 minutes per day until the new target is reached. For intensity changes, use dimmers or replace fixtures in stages over three to five days. Maintain a consistent night period during transitions. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on animal production systems that include environmental management considerations (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Step 6: Monitor for Two Weeks Allow at least 14 days after the full change is implemented before evaluating results. During this period, record daily observations of pig behavior, feed intake, and any signs of stress or discomfort. Take light intensity measurements at the same time each week to confirm that the new settings are stable. Note any equipment malfunctions or timer drift that could affect results. ### Step 7: Compare Performance Data After the monitoring period, compare performance data from the two weeks before the change to the two weeks after the change. Use the same metrics that triggered the adjustment. If performance improves, continue the new lighting program and record the successful change in your barn records. If performance does not improve or worsens, return to the original settings and consider testing a different variable. ### Step 8: Document and Share Results Record the entire decision process, including the initial problem, baseline measurements, the variable changed, implementation dates, monitoring data, and final outcomes. Share this information with farm staff and any consultants involved. This documentation helps build a farm-specific knowledge base for future lighting decisions. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include record-keeping guidelines (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Common Decision Scenarios The following scenarios illustrate how the framework applies to typical farm situations. #### Scenario A: Reduced Feed Intake in Lactating Sows A producer notices that sows in the farrowing barn are eating less than expected over five days. After ruling out feed quality issues and health problems, baseline measurements show light intensity at 80 lux at sow eye level, below the recommended 150 to 200 lux. The photoperiod is 16 hours, which is within the target range. The producer increases intensity by adding two LED fixtures and cleaning existing fixtures. After two weeks, feed intake returns to expected levels. The change is documented and maintained. #### Scenario B: Increased Aggression in Nursery Pigs Weaned pigs in a nursery room show increased fighting and tail biting. Temperature and ventilation are within targets, and stocking density is appropriate. Baseline measurements show a photoperiod of 10 hours, which is below the recommended 12 to 14 hours for nursery pigs. Light intensity is 120 lux, within the target range. The producer extends the photoperiod by 30 minutes per day until reaching 13 hours. After two weeks, aggression decreases and feeding behavior improves. #### Scenario C: Low Farrowing Rate in Gestation A gestation barn has a farrowing rate 10 percent below the farm average for the past three months. Health records show no disease outbreaks. Baseline measurements show a photoperiod of 14 hours, which is above the recommended 8 to 10 hours for gestating sows. Light intensity is 180 lux, within the target range. The producer shortens the photoperiod by 15 minutes per day until reaching 9 hours. After two months, farrowing rate returns to the farm average. ### Limitations of the Framework This decision framework is based on published research and field experience, but individual farm conditions may require adjustments. Genetics, housing system, climate, and management practices all influence how pigs respond to lighting changes. The framework assumes that lighting is one of several environmental factors affecting pig performance and should not be used in isolation when other problems are present. If performance does not improve after testing two or three lighting variables, consult a veterinarian or agricultural engineer for a comprehensive assessment. Research on electrical and thermal energy consumption in midwest commercial swine facilities provides context for expected lighting energy use and can help producers evaluate cost-effectiveness (Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2018, doi.org/10.13031/aea.12771). ### Integration with Automated Monitoring Systems As farms adopt automated monitoring technologies, the decision framework can be integrated with sensor data. Light sensors connected to barn management systems can provide continuous intensity and photoperiod data, reducing the need for manual measurements. Camera-based systems that detect pig behavior, such as the YOLOv9-based model for identifying pig feces on pig skin, can provide early warning of stress or health problems that may be related to lighting (Jurnal Teknik Informatika, 2025, doi.org/10.52436/1.jutif.2025.6.2.4240). These systems can trigger alerts when lighting conditions deviate from targets, allowing producers to respond quickly. However, automated systems should be validated against manual measurements periodically to ensure accuracy. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best photoperiod for gestating sows? A photoperiod of 8 to 10 hours of light per day is commonly used for gestating sows. This shorter day length helps maintain body condition and reduces activity levels. Consistent timing is important to avoid disrupting hormone cycles. Measure light intensity at 150 to 200 lux at sow eye level. ### How do I measure light intensity in my pig barn? Use a handheld lux meter and take readings at pig eye level, approximately 0.5 to 0.8 meters above the floor depending on pig size. Measure at multiple locations within each pen, including feeding and resting areas. Record the average and minimum values. Take measurements at the same time of day for consistency. ### Can I use LED lights in swine barns? Yes, LED lights are the most energy-efficient option for swine barns. Choose fixtures with a color temperature between 4000K and 5000K and a shatterproof design. LEDs produce minimal heat and have a long lifespan. Ensure fixtures have an IP rating of at least IP65 for dust and moisture resistance. ### How often should I clean light fixtures? Clean light fixtures every three months to remove dust and debris that reduce light output. Use a dry cloth or soft brush to avoid damaging the fixture. After cleaning, measure light intensity to confirm improvement. In dusty environments, clean more frequently. ### What light intensity is needed for farrowing areas? Farrowing areas require 150 to 200 lux at pig eye level. This intensity supports observation of sows and piglets, encourages nursing behavior, and helps workers identify health problems early. Provide a photoperiod of 16 to 18 hours of light per day for lactating sows and piglets. ### Do pigs need complete darkness at night? No, complete darkness is not recommended. Provide a dim night period of 6 to 8 hours with low-level lighting, such as 5 to 10 lux, to allow pigs to move safely and reduce stress. Use gradual dimming over 15 to 30 minutes to transition between light and dark. ### How does lighting affect pig feed intake? Extended photoperiods during lactation stimulate feed intake in sows, which supports milk production and reduces body condition loss. In nursery and grow-finish pigs, 12 to 14 hours of light per day encourages feeding behavior and supports growth. Insufficient light intensity can reduce feed intake and increase fear responses. ### What should I do if my lighting program is not working? First, check photoperiod settings and timer operation. Measure light intensity at pig eye level and compare to target ranges. Clean fixtures and replace any faulty bulbs. If problems persist, consult a lighting specialist or veterinarian. Review pig performance records to identify any correlations between lighting changes and production declines. ## Related Farming Guides - [Swine Barn Sensors Alarms And Data Review](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-barn-sensors-alarms-and-data-review) - [Manure Management For Pig Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/manure-management-for-pig-farms) - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Pig Barn Ventilation And Thermal Comfort](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-barn-ventilation-and-thermal-comfort) - [Pig Production Kpis And Herd Benchmarking](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-production-kpis-and-herd-benchmarking) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pig Enrichment Programs and Behavior Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-enrichment-programs-and-behavior-monitoring) * [Swine Handling Facility Design for Safe Pig Movement](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-handling-facility-design-safe-pig-movement) * [Swine Feeding Management for Grow-Finish Pigs](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-feeding-management-for-grow-finish-pigs) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection) - [www.aphis.usda.gov](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Lentiviral transgene vectors.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14710182). EMBO reports, 2004. - [Occupational exposure in swine farm defines human skin and nasal microbiota.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37065142). Frontiers in microbiology, 2023. - [The emergence and diversification of a zoonotic pathogen from within the microbiota of intensively farmed pigs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37963246). Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 2023. - [Roan coat color in livestock.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35811453). Animal genetics, 2022. - [Transgenic farm animals: an update.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17714630). Reproduction, fertility, and development, 2007. - [Diversity of Diptera Species in Estonian Pig Farms.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31979423). Veterinary sciences, 2020. - [YOLOv9-Based Object Detection Model For Pig Feces On Pig SKIN: Improving Biosecurity In Automated Cleaning Systems](https://doi.org/10.52436/1.jutif.2025.6.2.4240). Jurnal Teknik Informatika (Jutif), 2025. - [Determination of the Potential of Solar Energy as a Renewable Source for a Swine Center](https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/b3be5a7fe5aae9bf778a4fafdf763e3ce469f8f0) - [Prevention and Control Strategies of African Swine Fever and Progress on Pig Farm Repopulation in China](https://doi.org/10.3390/v13122552). Viruses, 2021. - [African Swine Fever Outbreak Investigation on Large Commercial Pig Farm in Serbia](https://doi.org/10.2478/acve-2021-0019). Acta Veterinaria, 2021. - [Frequency of comfort temperature and humidity in the early phase of swine in different lighting programs during the winter and summer](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84878337260). Asabe 9th International Livestock Environment Symposium 2012 Iles 2012, 2012. - [INFLUENCE OF SELECTED MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON HEAT, MOISTURE, AND AIR QUALITY IN SWINE HOUSING.](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0020887228). Canadian Agricultural Engineering, 1983. - [Automatic individual pig detection and tracking in pig farms](https://doi.org/10.3390/s19051188). Sensors Switzerland, 2019. - [Sustainable Self-Training Pig Detection System with Augmented Single Labeled Target Data for Solving Domain Shift Problem](https://doi.org/10.3390/s25113406). Sensors, 2025. - [The group-housed pigs attacking and daily behaviors detection and tracking based on improved YOLOv5s and DeepSORT](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0334783). Plos One, 2025. - [Electrical and thermal energy consumption in midwest commercial swine facilities](https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.12771). Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2018. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.