Hot or Cold issues...?

Question
This is the second time i have noticed "hammy" pulling up and bringing chunks of grass into his bed in the barn.  I figure since it is summer here maybe he is getting hot and using the grass to cool himself.  Or maybe with a few chilly nights he is using it as more cover for warmth.  Im afraid to add more bedding in his stall in case he is getting to warm, but then i would feel horrible if hes using it to keep warm.  It has only happened twice this past month or so, a couple two or three weeks apart.  He is 4yrs old and has only been living in the barn for about the past year to year and a half.  Any suggestions would be great, thanks!

-dane

Answer
Many pigs have a strong nesting instinct. Pigs use all sorts of strange things in their nests. Some pigs will use anything within reach, from rugs to shoes to hairdryers. Outdoor pigs might use branches, landscape plastic or old bicycle tires.

I can't say for sure why your pig decided to use the grass and sod in his bed. Maybe he was too warm, and the grass was cooler. Maybe he liked the way the grass tasted or smelled. Or maybe it was just handy, and he felt like taking it.

Pigs cope with extreme temperatures by gradually getting used to them. When the temperatures swing wildly between hot and cold, pigs have a little trouble adjusting.

It's always better to give piggy too much straw than too little. If piggy gets hot, piggy will push the straw to one side or out of the stall. It can be a little frustrating when piggy tosses the straw out. But at least you will be sure piggy is comfortable.