Which statement about the duration of estrus is correct?

Gilts, which are young female pigs that have not yet given birth, typically exhibit a shorter duration of estrus compared to sows, which are mature females that have already given birth. The average estrus duration for gilts can range from about 24 to 36 hours, whereas sows may show signs of estrus for a longer period of time, often 48 to 72 hours. This difference can be attributed to the hormonal and physiological changes that occur after a female has given birth, which can affect her reproductive cycle.

Understanding the duration of estrus is crucial for successful breeding programs, as it helps producers identify the optimal times for mating or artificial insemination to ensure higher chances of conception. Knowing that gilts usually display estrus for a shorter time allows pig producers to monitor them more closely and respond quickly when they show signs of being in heat.