Battersea parents who are pig sick of the long summer holidays have the chance to farm their children out to meet two cuddly (and hairy) sows today.
Piggle and Wiggle, Battersea Children’s Zoo’s resident Kune Kune pigs, will be showcasing their hot-to-trot antics during Piggy Day.
They were brought to the farm nine years ago in April 2006 and were just a quarter of their current size, but even then people commented on how big and hairy they were.
They arrived together from the same herd of pigs and at the farm their relationship blossomed, though Wiggle is the boss of the two and tends to hog the food.
Education and events manager for Battersea Children’s Zoo Fiona Vella said that her favourite thing about the pigs was the way they lapped up attention.
She said: “I love it when they flop over to be stroked on their tummy.
“They are so popular with guests and animal keepers alike because they are so friendly and funny.”
The porky pair, both aged nine, live up to their breed name Kune Kune, which means ‘fat and round’ in Maori, and will get the chance to indulge in some exercise while visitors throw fruit and vegetables for them to chase and gobble.
Fiona advised that guests will be able to pet animals, but to watch out if they are hungry, as they understandably have a tendency to get snappy when hungry.
The pigs have poor vision, so they have to depend on their snouts and other senses to get their meals.
Judging by the size of them, this seems to be a pretty effective method.
Children will also have the chance to take part in a range of activities including piggy story time and free mask painting.
Ticket prices are £8.95 for adults, £6.95 for children aged two to 15 and children under two go free.
Family tickets are offered at £29.00.Concessions are available for senior and disabled visitors.
For more information visit www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk or call 0207 924 5826.
