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To evaluate how much space sows occupy during nest-building and grouping behaviour in dependence of their body size under non-restricted spatial conditions.
To experimentally assess how different space allowances of the farrowing pens’ nest/lying area affects the sows’ ability to perform functional maternal (nest-building and grouping) behaviour in dependence of their body size.
To collect data on Swiss commercial farms regarding current body size distribution of sows, space allowance of farrowing pens, performance of maternal (nest-building and grouping) behaviour, and piglet losses due to crushing.
To elaborate recommendations for farmers, farrowing pen constructors, and advisory services on space requirements and optimal farrowing pen design in order to enable normal maternal behaviour and prevent piglet mortality due to crushing.