A new Mercy For Animals investigation reveals the unsettling reality for pigs trapped inside a U.S. factory farm. The footage shows rows of pregnant pigs confined to gestation crates—metal cages, each barely larger than a pig’s body—unable to lie down comfortably or turn around. The investigator also documented many stillbirths and miscarriages. One day, more than 100 piglets were discovered dead. Days-old piglets had their testicles ripped out and tails cut off without pain relief. Footage captures other baby pigs violently smashed headfirst against the ground, a shocking practice called “thumping” used to kill sick, injured, and runt animals. 

In another investigation, Mercy For Animals drones went to a new level: low enough to look directly into the windows of a factory pig farm. After passing rows of industrial pig sheds, our drone flew over giant pits of feces and urine. Watch the video here.

Both investigations highlight the need for better government protections for animals. Please join Mercy For Animals in urging Congress to protect farmed animals in the Farm Bill.