VIDEO: Cow caught nursing pig in RS; experts explain whether the behavior poses risks
A cow in Vacaria, Brazil, was filmed nursing a piglet, prompting curiosity and expert commentary on the unusual animal behavior.
A unique video from Vacaria in Brazil shows a cow nursing a piglet, an event that surprised both the animal’s owner, Adair João Borges da Silva, and viewers alike. This maternal behavior is rare, with the owner recalling how it is the first time he has witnessed such an occurrence, although he noted other unusual instances, including a dog nursing a pig. The close living conditions of the animals on the farm may have contributed to their unique interaction.
Animal behavior specialists weighed in on the phenomenon, with André Gustavo Cabrera Dalto, a professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, explaining that nursing between different species is generally not considered normal. Despite the excitement generated by the video, experts suggest that the act might not pose immediate risks to either animal involved, yet it raises questions about cross-species interactions and maternal instincts.
The footage, recorded on the previous Saturday, has gone viral, capturing the attention of many and sparking conversations about animal behavior. Following the recording, the piglet was unfortunately stolen, adding a layer of intrigue to the story. The incident highlights the complexities of animal interactions and the environment in which they are raised, prompting further inspection into how farm life affects animal behavior.