Farrow outside or in the barn?

[ljdelo]

We have a sow that is due today or tomorrow. She has a nice big stall filled with straw, but can come and go as she likes. It looks like she had decided to farrow outside in the dirt because she is making a nest in the pasture and is a little defensive when I come near. We are in Washington and our temp is currently 57 and will get up to 76 later today. The forecast is similar for the rest of the week. Should I move her into the barn and lock her in or just let her be. I have a boarded off corner in her stall with a heat lamp for the babies if they needed it, but if she has them outside they won't have any protection. I would really like her to go inside, but if you all think it's ok outside then I will probably take some straw to the pasture for her to nest with. Any opinions/experiences would be greatly appreciated. FYI: This is her second litter. Thanks!!

[jimhilton]

If it were my pig I would put her in the barn. Less problems with weather changes, sunburned babies etc. The more protection the better.

[ljdelo]

Thanks for your input. Of course by the time I tried to get her moved to the barn, she turned around, layed down and popped out a baby!! Farrowing went well and after we let them settle for a few hours (she started at 12 and had the last one at 5:30, waited until 8:00) and then moved her into the barn. Now my questions is if it is 50-55 at night should we have a heat lamp on in the corner? My husband doesn't like to leave them on at night, but I am thinking that they need to have it just in case. They have deep straw to burrow into and didn't seem chilled when we brought them in, but it may get a little cooler. What do you think? Heat lamp on or off?

Thanks!!

[NexGen]

Yes, heat lamp for sure, 24/7 with those temps. Newborns need about 90 degree temps to keep warm. ( and a draft free environment) As they grow, they require less, but always give them the choice of a warm area.

[ljdelo]

Thanks!! I went ahead and kept it on. Only a couple are under it, but at least it is there if they need it.