EIGHT piglets have been born to a rare breed of curly-haired pig.

Three mangalitza pigs, which have curly sheep-like hair and are native to Hungary and Austria, were introduced at Tropical Wings, in South Woodham Ferrers.

At the time staff suspected one of the sows, Portia, might be pregnant. As the weeks went on her condition became increasingly clear, and the eight tiny bundles were born.

They are stripy like wild boar piglets, evidence of the breed’s ancient origins.

Denise Cox, the centre’s educational officer, said: “They are all doing really well. They have got a stable at the back of the field where they were born.

“I spotted them just peeking their heads out of the stable, and popping out then running back in.

“They’re getting braver and braver, so in about a week’s time they should be running around, causing chaos!”