Dutch pig farm defies tail-cut ban, showcases music organ for swine

Sengersbroek, a small family farm in Asten-Heusden, lets its pigs keep their tails, allowing them to express emotions through wagging and curling. The farm also houses the Knorgel, a rainbow-colored organ designed by artist Pauline Wiersema to highlight pigs’ curiosity and intelligence. Farm owner Peter Wijnen notes the instrument is unnecessary for his well-cared animals, who have ample space to roam.

Enforcement of the EU tail-cut ban, incorporated into Dutch law, is hampered by the NVWA, which says it lacks practical means to act. Varkens in Nood has appealed the NVWA and the Ministry of Agriculture’s decision to reject enforcement requests, bringing the case before the College van Beroep voor het bedrijfsleven. The dispute underscores tension between animal-welfare standards and economic pressures on pig producers.