British Saddleback facts for kids
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| Conservation status | FAO (2007): endangered-maintained |
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| Country of origin | United Kingdom |
| Use | dual-purpose, pork and bacon |
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The British Saddleback is a special kind of pig from Britain. It's a newer breed, created in 1967. This pig was made by combining two older types of pigs: the Essex pig and the Wessex Saddleback. Both of these older breeds had a unique "saddle" pattern on their bodies.
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How the British Saddleback Breed Started
The British Saddleback pig was created in 1967. This happened when two older pig breeds, the Essex and the Wessex Saddleback, were combined. Their numbers had become very low.
Why the Breeds Combined
In 1955, a report called the Howitt report suggested something important. It said that having too many different pig breeds was making it hard for the pig farming business in Britain. So, the plan was to focus on raising only three main breeds: the Welsh, the British Landrace, and the Large White.
Before this, during the Second World War, the Essex and Wessex pigs were very popular. Almost half of all registered mother pigs were from these two breeds. But after the report, their numbers dropped a lot. By 1954, fewer than 10% of male pigs used for breeding were Essex or Wessex. Farmers were then told to cross-breed these saddleback pigs with white pigs. This would create pigs good for both pork and bacon.
Current Status of the Breed
In 2007, a group called the FAO said the British Saddleback was "endangered-maintained." This means its numbers are low, but people are working to keep the breed going. The Rare Breeds Survival Trust calls it a "minority breed." In 2012, there were about 882 British Saddleback pigs reported.
What British Saddlebacks Look Like
The British Saddleback is a large pig with a deep body. It is mostly black. It has a white "saddle" or band that goes around its shoulders and front legs. Sometimes, it also has a bit of white on its nose, tail, and back feet. These pigs have floppy ears that hang down.
What British Saddlebacks Are Used For
British Saddleback pigs are very strong and can live well outdoors. They are good at finding their own food. Mother pigs of this breed are also known for being excellent mothers to their piglets.
Dual-Purpose Pigs
This breed is called "dual-purpose." This means they are good for making both pork (fresh meat) and bacon. They are especially popular for farms that raise pigs outdoors or use organic farming methods.
Exported to Other Countries
British Saddlebacks have also been sent to countries like Nigeria and the Seychelles. In these hot places, the pigs have done very well, even when eating rough grass.
