British Lop Pigs - Breed History continued

When the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) was established in 1973, the Lop was listed as one of the six rare pig breeds recognised by them. The inclusion of a breed as officially listed as ‘rare’ generally increased interest in all such breeds and indeed the Lop is more populous now than at any time in the last 30-odd years. However, it suffered, in comparison with the other rare breeds of swine, by not looking particularly distinctive. It is, after all, as its earlier name says, a white lop-eared pig and to the non-specialist, could be confused with the Welsh or the Landrace. Instead, enthusiasts flocked to pigs with short snouts, spotted or ginger hogs but not so readily to the pig that looked quite normal.

Yet the Lop has a great deal going for it. It is generally docile and easy to manage and is hardy enough for outdoor systems. It grows readily and will finish with a well-muscled, lean carcase at pork or bacon weights. The dams are prolific and make good milky mothers.

So, whether for larger production systems or for smallholders looking for an easily managed breed to produce good quality meat for the growing niche market, the Lop will do the job and do it better than most. It is indeed, the breed for every need.

British Lop Pigs - breed history Page 3

Reproduced by kind permission of The British Lop Pig Society

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