At which of the following ages are gilts normally mated?

Gilts are young female pigs that have not yet given birth. In pig farming, gilts are usually mated, or bred, at a specific age. The question is asking us to determine at which age gilts are normally mated.

The correct answer is option A: 8 - 12 months.

At this age, gilts have reached sexual maturity and are capable of reproducing. It is important to mate gilts at the right age to ensure their health and the success of the breeding program. Mating gilts too early or too late can lead to complications and reduced fertility.

By mating gilts at 8 - 12 months, pig farmers can ensure that the gilts are physically mature enough to handle the demands of pregnancy and childbirth. This age range also allows the farmer to maximize the reproductive lifespan of the gilt, as they can have multiple litters over the course of their breeding career.

It is worth noting that the other options (B, C, D, and E) are ages that are either too late or too advanced for mating gilts. Mating gilts at these ages may lead to health problems and decreased fertility.

So, in summary, gilts are normally mated at 8 - 12 months of age to ensure their health and reproductive success.