Merlin

Kune Kune Pig · Kune Kune Pig

The leader of the pig crew with a commanding presence.

About Me

Well, well, well — look who came to visit! I'm Merlin, the undisputed leader of the pig crew here at Pine Acres. I didn't become the boss by accident, you know. I'm smart, I'm confident, and I know exactly where the best mud puddle is at all times. My crew — Precious and Runt — look up to me, and I take good care of them. I may be a pig, but I've got the wisdom of a wizard (hence the name!). I'm friendly with visitors, but I do like to check you out first. Come on over, introduce yourself, and let's see if you're worthy of an audience with the great Merlin!

My Personality

Merlin is the confident, natural leader of the pig group. He's smart, self-assured, and carries himself with authority. He investigates new situations first so the others know it's safe. He's friendly with visitors but in a dignified, 'I'll come to you' sort of way. He has a magnetic personality that draws people in.

Quick Facts

Sex

Male ♂

Breed

Kune Kune Pig

Age

Birthday

Favorite Snack

Fresh cucumbers

Favorite Activity

Leading the pig crew

Fun Nickname

The Mud Master

Weight

Height

My Favorite Treats

Fresh vegetables, especially cucumbers, zucchini, and pumpkin. He also loves a good belly rub after a meal!

How to Interact With Me

Merlin is friendly and will usually come over to check you out. He likes gentle scratches behind his ears and on his sides. He's smart and curious, so he enjoys when visitors talk to him. If you're patient, he might even roll over for a belly rub — but only if he decides you've earned it!

Safety Tips

Merlin is friendly but still a pig, so please don't get too close without a farm helper nearby. Don't feed him anything without asking first — some foods are bad for pigs. Pigs have strong jaws, so keep fingers away from his mouth when he's eating!

Did You Know?

Kune Kune pigs have special tassels of skin hanging from their lower jaw called 'piripiri.'

About the Kune Kune Pig

Native Country

New Zealand

Lifespan

15-20 years

Diet

Grass, vegetables, fruits, and small amounts of grain

Conservation Status

Recovering — saved from near extinction in the 1970s

Kune Kune pigs are a heritage breed from New Zealand, believed to have been brought there by Maori sailors. They are unique among pigs because they can graze on grass alone — they don't need the high-grain diet that commercial pigs require. They are much smaller than commercial pigs and have distinctive tassels called 'piripiri' hanging from their lower jaw. Kune Kune pigs are known for their extremely gentle and friendly temperament, making them excellent farm companions. They were nearly extinct in the 1970s but have been saved by dedicated breeders.