Colloquially known by some as "lard pigs" Berkshire are possibly the most recognizable of all heritage swine breeds. Berkshire are an old breed, but through selective breeding with Oriental imports to the UK in the 1820's, the modern form of the breed was established. Berks has become so popular by the late 1800's it was not uncommon to see them in the show ring. Although the trend meant an upsurge in numbers, it was ultimately to the detriment of the breed - with a move towards breeding specifically for backfat. By the 1940's Berkshire has almost disappeared in the UK.

Known for their well marbled meat, Berkshire were also valued for their lard, which was used for varying purposes. A trend back to more natural products has meant more interest in the breed again.

Described as "great starter pigs", Berkshire are well regarded for their docile temperament and being ideally suited to extensive management.

Berkshire are currently designated as "critical" in status in Canada.

Hampshire pigs were first imported to North America from the UK between 1825 and 1835. The breed subsequently went on to become extremely popular in the United States. However, Hampshire have not enjoyed the same status here. Until recently Hamps were on the verge of being declared "extinct" - currently there are only 2 farms registering Hamps - resulting in a status of "critical" with HLC.

Hampshire characteristics include being well-muscled and rapid growers - with lesser amounts of back fat than other breeds and large loin eyes. Suitable for both extensive and intensive management systems - the boars are used as terminal sires. Sows are also valued due to their strong mothering instincts and longevity.

Lacombe are a composite breed developed beginning in 1947 - as their name suggests in Lacombe, Alberta. Originally a cross of Chester White, Danish Landrace and Berkshire, their development was a fairly rapid one, being introduced as a new breed in the 1950's.

Lacombe were meant to display a docile temperament and rapid weight gains. Alongside large litter sizes. Traits which hold true today. Lacombe are faster gaining than other heritage swine breeds - and are also ideal for those looking for a leaner pork.

HLC designates Lacombe as "critical" in status.

Large Black pigs are the result of the crossing of black pigs from Devon and Cornwall in the nineteenth century. At the height of their popularity in the 1920's Large Black were exported all over the world.

With the release of the Howitt report after the Second World War - which recommended the use of only three pig breeds in large commercial settings, although the Large Black had been part of the foundation of some of the breeds - numbers severely declined. Commercial pork producers, no longer wanted in particular the black hide. Large Black are considered currently to be "endangered" internationally.

Ideal for foraging and in pasture settings. Large Black are also docile, have strong maternal instincts and longevity. As they are so long sided, their meat can be used for bacon and other cuts.

Red Wattle are native to North America. Their exact origins are unknown, but there are reports of red pigs with wattles dating back to the 1800's.

Obviously distinct for their colouration and wattles. These pigs are also versatile, being well adapted to varying climates and particularly suited to extensive management systems. Average litter sizes are 7-12, with sows having plenty of milk to feed the piglets. Red Wattle pork is well marbled and flavourful.

Tamworth made up 10% of the Canadian swine population until the 1950's, when modern production methods, which the breed is not suited to - meant a steady decline in their numbers. Registered, purebred, Tamworth are precariously close to becoming extinct in Canada - thankfully we have some dedicated breeders who are determined to see the breed survive. With a status of "critical" in this country, Tamworth are also internationally rare.

Tamworth originated in their "modern" form on the Drayton Manor Estate of Sir Robert Peel, situated in Tamworth, Staffordshire. The breed is considered to be one of the oldest in terms of swine.

A medium sized pig, Tamworth are ideally suited to less intensive farming methods and have been noted as being particularly effective foragers. An inquisitive pig in nature, the temperament of Tamworth is docile. Their winter hardiness is also a major attribute in our Canadian winters.

The Canadian Swine Breeders Association is responsible for the registration of heritage swine breeds in Canada, through the Canadian Livestock Records Corporation. CSBA offers a special rate of a $25 membership for those who exclusively raise heritage swine breeds.

To add integrity to registrations, HLC has partnered with Neogen Canada to offer parentage testing.

Please contact the office for more information.

Raising pigs on pasture can be profitable, if done correctly. The Sustainable Agriculture and Education centire have put together examples of different operations.

It is worth noting, pasture raised pigs still need supplemental grain.

An in depth tutorial provided by ATTRA NCAT Sustainable Agriculture regarding farrowing on pasture. Including the need for close observation and housing.

An interesting article on the need to “Eat Em to Save Em” which is particularly applicable to swine. Developing a direct market is an essential part of raising heritage swine.

Due to the nature of pigs and their large litter sizes, it is essential to develop a market for their pork. The Livestock Conservancy have put together a good starting guide, with thought provoking questions and development suggestions..

Please check for provincial regulations on the direct marketing of meat.

Export certified frozen semen from varying heritage pig breeds, from the UK.

CFIA import rules for the import of pigs from the United States. For information on imports from other countries, use the APHIS system on the CFIA website.

Poricine Circovirus is a virus, which is common to pigs. Symptoms include: reproductive problems, stillbirths, poor growth rate in piglets and late term abortions. Fortunately, there are vaccines available to protect herds. We recommend doing so, as part of conservation efforts.

Vaccination protocol should be established, with your veterinarian.

Interested in learning more about heritage pigs? HLC’s interim swine representative, Elwood Quinn will be happy to help!