Henrico Hogs: Keepers found surprise piglet litter at Meadow Farm in Virginia (Part 2)

It’s hog heaven at the Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park! The historic farm in Henrico County is home to a variety of heritage animal breeds, including the critically endangered Ossabaw Island hogs originating from coastal Georgia.
Meadow Farm staff were surprised to find a litter of piglets born from the newest arrival, Gertrude, who was brought in as a companion pig. Keepers brought “Gertie” to the farm after Mable’s passing, which left the farm's other pig, Mildred, without a friend.
Animal Care Specialist Jennifer Burghoffer said she and other staff members discovered the litter during a routine check-in with the pigs, shortly after Gertie's arrival last year.
“We said hi to Mildred, we’re saying hi to Gertie, she’s trotting over to her food bowl, and I just happened to glance a bit of movement out of the corner of my eye,” Burghoffer recalled. “As I was walking towards her to get a better look of what I was seeing, I look into her shelter and there was very clearly a pile of piglets.”
The farm is located at 3400 Mountain Road in Glen Allen and the grounds are open every day from dawn to dusk. Tours are available Saturdays at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. and by appointment.
For more information about Meadow Farm, visit henrico.gov/re....