SE Wisconsin helps name three little pigs at Racine Zoo

RACINE (WITI) -- The Racine Zoological Society announced Thursday, June 6th the names of three little pigs that arrived to the Zoo in early May.  After a close public vote, the winning names, submitted by Jackie Fohr of Racine, are Orson, Elmer, and Norton.

Orson, the pink pig with black spots, Elmer, the black pig with pink "socks", and Norton, the black pig seem to be very pleased with their new names.

Racine and surrounding communities were encouraged to submit names April 24 through May 8 to the Racine Zoo Facebook page (facebook/racinezoo) or through The Journal Times online contest page.  Zoo staff narrowed approximately 400 entries down to five finalists. Public voting for finalists occurred May 15 through May 26. 

Fohr receives a special Zoo prize package worth $250 that includes three plush pigs, a one-year family membership, and special animal encounter. Of course, she and her family have the opportunity for a meet and greet with the pigs she helped to name.

"We couldn’t be happier to get the community involved and rally to name these little guys," said Jay R. Christie, president and CEO of the Racine Zoo.  "With so many creative entries, Albert Einswine, Elvis Pigsley, and Notorious P.I.G., to name a few, it was difficult to narrow down to the final five finalists.  The winning names suit them quite well."

The three miniature pigs, Orson, Elmer, and Norton are featured along with Nigerian dwarf goats, Tunis sheep, alpacas, llamas, and other species from around the world in the new interactive Barnyard Safari exhibit, open daily and free with Zoo admission.

The miniature pig is a small, colorfully spotted pig. Miniature pigs are small in size, typically between 20 - 40 pounds. Weight will vary depending on bone structure, health, and length of the pig. Height ranges from 10 to 16 inches and length from chest to base of tail is 12 to 26 inches.