WORKERS at a Brentwood farm were surprised to hear the pitter-patter of tiny trotters when five rare pigs were born.
The new litter of Kune Kune pigs, which are native to New Zealand and nearly became extinct in the 1980s, were born at Old McDonald’s Farm Leisure and Educational Park, Weald Road.
Ray Smith, the farm’s information officer, said: “It was a surprise because we don’t usually expect to see births at this time of year – they usually happen during March and April when it gets a bit warmer.”
The pigs, which are not suitable for producing meat, join a group of 15 at the farm and are among only about 4,000 in Europe.
Mr Smith said: “Ordinary creatures can become extinct as well as exotic ones like pandas. It’s important to do work so that we can save them.”
The farm is holding a free day for teachers and their families on Sunday. For more information visit: www.omd-farmsforschools.co.uk.
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