Pigs come in all shapes and sizes. Each breed offering their own individual quirky traits. This week we will be exploring the positives for some of the more well known traditional breeds which roam our farms.
Middle White (Endangered)
Renowned for its top-quality meat which repeatedly comes first in taste tests. Recognized by their unmistakable squashed nose. Prick-eared.
Large Black (Vulnerable)
The clues in the name with this one, these are large pigs but are incredibly docile. Description wise, they are Britain’s only all-black pig. Lop-eared.
Berkshire (Vulnerable)
Good meat to bone ratio while being small and docile. The original Berkshire pig was sandy-brown, but modern ones are almost entirely black with white on the face, feet, and tip of the tail. Prick-eared.
Tamworth (Vulnerable)
These are the closest relative of the wild boar which currently roam the UK’s countryside. They are hardy and highly prized for bacon and hams. Colours range from light ginger to auburn. Prick-eared.
British Saddleback (At risk)
A very popular breed, large but just as easy to handle. They are distinctive and described as black with white shoulder ‘saddle’ extending down the legs. Lop-eared.
Gloucestershire Old Spots (Minority)
Extremely popular with first times, known as the ‘orchard pig.’ Described simply as white with black spots. Lop-eared.
Oxford Sandy and Black (Not Recognized)
Visually the most attractive and popular with smallholders. It can also be raised to large weights without laying down too much fat. Base colour ranges from sandy to deep reddish brown. Lop-eared.
