What is the correct term for a mature female swine?

The term "sow" specifically refers to a mature female pig. In the context of animal husbandry and swine production, a sow is an important animal, often kept for breeding purposes and producing piglets. This distinction is critical in agricultural practice, as different terms are used for different species and genders of animals.

For example, "ewe" refers to a female sheep, "hen" is used for a female chicken, and "doe" describes a female goat. Each of these terms is specific to their respective species, highlighting the importance of terminology in animal science for proper identification and management of livestock. Understanding these terms is essential for effective communication in the field of animal agriculture.