Miniature pig and calf become best of friends

This adorable picture shows the unusual pairing of a cow and a pig at a popular tourist attraction.

Mr Sparkles, a 14-week-old miniature piglet was having trouble sleeping at the animal farm, until he met 12-week-old Hereford calf Dainty.

The pair, who were both born underweight, instantly hit it off and became firm friends.

Now, staff at Pennywell Farm have to keep a close eye on Mr Sparkles as he escapes to be with his best bud Dainty at every opportunity.

Chris Murray, 67, co-owner of the farm attraction, said: “Dainty was small when she was born, she was tiny, that’s why she’s called Dainty.

“Mr Sparkles was also very tiny when he was born and they were in a pen next to each other.

“He use to squeeze under the bars of the gate and sleep with Dainty. He was the only one small enough to get through.

“When Dainty goes to sleep Mr Sparkles will go and sleep with her, they’re very happy to eat together too.

“We haven’t had one of our pigs and cows being firm friends and wanted to be together before but it’s good for them.

“Because pigs are very clean animals he doesn’t contaminate her pen and they are very happy together.

“Animals really respond to things, they find having friends entertaining – it’s part of animal enrichment.

“There’s no sexism, or racism, or whatever you want to call it.

“I’m very happy, they are both doing well.

“It’s funny that two small chaps have decided to pair up.

“Everyone needs friends, don’t they?”