The swimming pigs of Exuma are by far the most famous attraction these islands have to offer today. They’ve been around for quite some time but their popularity has really taken off in the last few years.
They’ve had visited from celebrities like Gabrielle Union and Amy Schumer. They’ve appeared on The Bachelor as well as multiple news stations. If you Google the Bahamas they’re one of the first things that show up.
They may be adorable and an intriguing attraction but they’re more than just an Instagram picture. These are living animals. Here are few tips to keep these cute piggies safe and healthy for future visitors.
1. BOOK A REPUTABLE TOUR COMPANY
A tour company will know all the good ins-and-outs of the swimming pigs. They’ll know when to go and how to interact with them. A tour company will make sure you have the best possible experience with these friendly pigs.
2. BRING A CAMERA
You don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to capture this moment. These pigs are adorable, there are even piglets! Make sure you bring a camera (or your phone) to snap a few good pictures.
3. DON’T GIVE THEM ALCOHOL, SODA, OR ANY BEVERAGES
Like most animals, pigs only drink water. Don’t be that obnoxious tourist that gives these animals something they’re not supposed to drink. Only humans should drink beverages like soda, alcohol, and other beverages.
4. ONLY FEED THEM FOOD GIVEN BY TOUR GUIDE
Pigs might eat a lot but that doesn’t mean they should. Your tour guide should provide appropriate snacks for you to feed the hungry pigs. Make sure you don’t give them other snacks as this can be fatal.
5. DON’T SIT ON THE PIGS
Some of them might be big but please don’t sit on them. They’re pigs, not horses.
6. DON’T BE FOOLED BY IMITATION PIGS
There is more than one place in Exuma to see swimming pigs. The “famous” ones though are located on White Bay Cay.
7. DON’T RIDE THEM
You’d be surprised by how many people try to rid the pigs. These animals aren’t made for that. They might be friendly and cute but they’re still wild. Not only is it dangerous for the pig but it’s also dangerous for you.
8. DON’T PULL ON THEIR TAILS
Pigs are known for having cute little cork tails. While it might be tempting to pull on them, resist it. It will only annoy them and trust us you don’t want that.
9. REMEMBER, THEY’RE PIGS
They might be adorable and friendly, but they’re still pigs. The only difference between them and the ones you visit on a farm are that these ones swim in the ocean. This keeps them cleaner than most, but just know that the ocean isn’t only their exercise room- it’s their bathroom. So keep your mouth closed as you swim in the area.
10. DON’T PUT YOUR HAND IN THEIR MOUTH
You’d be surprised at how powerful a pig’s jaw can be. Save yourself some pain and don’t put your hands in their mouth. Let them take food from your hand; don’t place it in there yourself.
11. BE KIND TO THEM
These are living animals! Treat them with respect and kindness. They swim up to boats and are okay with humans because they trust us. Don’t ruin the experience from others by being cruel to such peaceful creatures.
12. DON’T STEAL THEM
People might be into having pigs as pets these days but not these wild ones. Not to mention, you’d have a hard time getting a pig through customs!