Pig

A pig is a stout-bodied, short-legged omnivorous mammal of the Suidae family, domesticated worldwide for their meat and various byproducts. The term "pig" usually refers to younger swine, while "hog" and "boar" refer to mature males, and "sow" to females. Pigs are highly intelligent, ranking among the smartest domesticated animals and are notably cleaner than their reputation suggests, often using mud wallows to cool down rather than out of filthiness.​

Key characteristics of pigs include:

• Thick, sparsely bristled skin and two functional hooved toes per foot.​

• Sensitive snouts used for rooting and an excellent sense of smell but poor eyesight.​

• Omnivorous diet, ranging from roots and fruits in the wild to commercial feed on farms.​

• Sharp tusks (more developed in wild pigs) used for foraging and defense.​

Pigs are found on every continent except Antarctica, with domestic breeds originating from wild stocks in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Wild pigs were introduced to North America by European explorers in the 15th century.​

In terms of reproduction, sows give birth to litters of piglets, which rapidly gain weight. Pigs are valuable to humans for pork, leather, glue, fertilizer, medicines, and are increasingly used in biomedical research due to physiological similarities with humans.​

Below is a diagram illustrating the reproductive system of a boar, relevant to pig anatomy.