Maple the pig recently lost her litter of piglets. She was later given two to adopt, and she mothered them immediately. No hesitation, no confusion — just instinct and care.

Watching her in this video, you can see that same thoughtfulness in everything she does. Pigs operate with a level of intelligence and empathy they’re rarely given enough credit for. It’s thoughtful, intentional, and absolutely pure of heart. It shows up beautifully in moments exactly like this.

The clip starts with Maple lying with her two adopted piglets. She stands up and looks around, leaves briefly, and comes back dragging a multi-colored tunnel through her enclosure door. She turns a few circles with it as her babies watch, as though she’s showing them how it works. The piglets are fascinated, and as she positions it, they both begin to explore it immediately, as she lies down for a nap.

This looks like a mom pig making a decision-interpret it as you will.

There are some cute comments on the video by TikTok users. “Pigs are literally so human. Our couple would have conversations with each other for hours, and when they had babies they decorated their house together with cedar branches, mint, and daffodils.” Awwwww!

Another reader also had a home decorating mom pig: “Before our mama pig gave birth, she made her little den area all pretty with branches with theses pretty flowers on them. I read later on that pigs will “decorate” their spaces.”

And everyone else just loved this wonderful mama. “The way she jumped out of her sleep to do that,” wrote one. Another said, “How cool. What a good smart mama.” That sentiment was echoed repeatedly: “Oh, my heart. This is so precious. Pigs are the best.” “Thanks for making me cry, Maple.” “That is absolutely adorable, we don’t deserve animals.”

Just How Smart Are Pigs?

Pigs are widely considered to be one of the most intelligent animals on the planet, with cognitive abilities often compared to that of a three year old child. They’re excellent problem-solvers, capable of complex communication, and can even show the ability to feel empathy, which is uncommon in the animal world.

Related: Pigs Rescued From ‘Severe Neglect’ Spend Their First Night of Freedom Cuddled Together

We’re so quick to underestimate farm animals, but today’s video of Maple might make you slow down and think differently.

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This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Feb 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.