Chemnitz Zoo: Offspring among the mini pigs
Partridge chicks also hatched
On 23 July, the Erzgebirge farm at Chemnitz Zoo gave birth to six piglets: the Göttingen miniature pig "Bärbel" gave birth to six piglets.
This is the first offspring for Bärbel, who only came to the zoo at the beginning of the year. Her father is the boar "Ehrmann", who is currently housed separately from the sow and piglets in the neighbouring enclosure.
Domestic pigs are three months, three weeks and three days pregnant, totalling between 112 and 114 days. As with their wild relatives - the wild boar - they build a nest-like bed before birth, in which the piglets spend the first few weeks. The sow suckles her piglets for three to four months.
The domestic pig breed "Göttingen mini pig" was bred in the early 1960s through targeted crossbreeding at the University of Göttingen. The aim was to create a particularly small breed of pig specifically for experimental purposes, as humans and pigs are physiologically very similar. In the meantime, however, the mini pigs have also become very popular as pets, which is why there is a wide variety of colours.
Offspring among the partridges
Eleven chicks hatched among the partridges at the Oberrabenstein game reserve on 10 July. The pair, who have been living in the game reserve since January 2020, have their first offspring.
Partridge mating normally begins in early spring. The timing depends on the temperatures: as it was cold for a relatively long time this year, their courtship was delayed accordingly.
Partridges lay an average of 15 eggs, with younger hens laying more than older ones. The incubation period is 24 to 26 days, the chicks are nest fledglings. The cock guards the incubating hen and is also involved in rearing and protecting the young. The family - partridges are referred to as a chain in hunting parlance - stays together throughout the winter.
Partridges are considered a highly endangered species in Germany. Intensive farming has turned the former cultural successor into a cultural refugee. Partridges today lack suitable breeding opportunities. Furthermore, they are often unable to find suitable food. Although partridges are actually considered a relatively undemanding species, populations are declining all the time.
Opening hours in summer:
Zoo: 9 am to 7 pm, last admission 6 pm
Game enclosure: 8 am to 6 pm, last admission 5 pm
www.tierpark-chemnitz.de