Hog

Hog, pig, or swine, domestic animal (family Suidae) bred for its flesh and fat. Hogs are descended from the wild boars (Sus scrofa) of Europe and Asia, which live in small herds in woodland. The weight of the male, or boar, can be up to 400 lb (181 kg), while the female, or sow, only weighs 300 lb (136 kg). The boar has tusks up to 1 ft (30 cm) long and can be dangerous. Hogs were probably among the earliest domesticated animals. They were allowed to run free in the woods, feeding on seeds such as acorns. Domestic hogs have retained the varied diet of their ancestors and will eat roots, fallen fruit, and even meat. A sow produces litters of up to 12 piglets.