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In Champagne, pigs are being tested for weed control in the vineyards. The Kunekune breed, which comes from New Zealand, is used for this. The small animals have weak neck muscles and can hardly lift their heads. As a result, they cannot reach the grapes, leaves and branches of the vines. Instead, they eat herbs and weeds between and under the rows of vines and also eat the fallen leaves. In this way, they reduce the risk of infection by mould pathogens that are found on the foliage. Kunekune is a Maori word meaning 'round and fat'.
The dwarf pigs with the big heads can move well even on steep slopes. After about a week, they are moved to new plots in the vineyard, each of which must be surrounded by electric fences. In Bordeaux, experience has already been gained with the Kunekune pigs after attempts with sheep and geese were not successful. They often did not eat all the weeds, but nibbled the vines.
Since the regional champagne association CIVC has set itself the goal of certifying all producers as environmentally friendly by 2030, chemical sprays and tractor passes must be significantly reduced. The Kunekune could provide valuable help in this regard.
(al / Source: The Winemaker; Photo: pixabay)