[pigsmakemesmile]

Hi Newbie,
Don't be discouraged. You need to be patient while the pigs learn to gain their trust with you. I have 6 boys and when I first began adopting them I experienced the same situation. It's very normal for pigs to scurry away and hide but more so when they're in a new environment. In the wild pigs live in herds not only because they are social beings but also as a defense as a pig will guard and alert others if danger approaches. when they sense danger is near they scatter and scurry. That behavior is not much different when they're domesticated. They may percieve us as danger then scurry and run into a hidey or corner of a cage where they feel the safest. This is not a behavioral problem, they are acting only on instint. This is where you need to develop patients and allow the pigs to become familiar and comfortable in their environment. You can begin to build trust by developing a routine. Overtime they will see you as the keeper of the food and treats. Start by letting them see their treats and come to you then lay it down and allow them to eat. Overtime they will both start taking it from your hand and come to the edge of the pen when they hear a bag krinkle. Even when they've gained your trust don't be surprised if they continue to scurry when you reach for them. I found getting them into the corner of their pen and retrieving them there is a little easier. Once you have your pig, just let him or her rest on your lap or sit on your chest for a while. Talk to them and cuddle them. Let them get use to your voice and smell. I've done this with all 6 boys. Ben my first pig especially comes to the edge of the cage and stretches his head out sniff'n for his treat, at this point i'll tickle his neck and pick him right up where he begins to coo. My boys pretty much come to the edge of their pen any time I walk into the pig room. When I pull in the drive way and say "hey piggy poo's..mom's home", they begin to wheak as they know they're soon going to get treats. It takes time...just be patient also, remember don't apply human emotions to pigs because they're not capable of such. Be patient and let them get use to you and their new environment. good luck