Pig Breeds in Focus - British Lop

Characteristics

The British Lop is a a large, white-skinned pig with lop ears hanging forward over the face, which is where its name comes from.  It has a long frame and Its body is heavy-set and much bigger in the body than other similar breeds such as the Landrace or Welsh.  It is well known for its gentle temperament

History

The British Lop is a traditional breed and originally came from the South West of England (particularly Tavistock) and was used for pork meat.  Unusually, it doesn't appear to have had much if any input from imported Asian pigs.

It was originally called the Cornish White or Devon Lop.  In the early early twentieth century it become known ad the Long White Lop-eared or White Lop.  It was only in the 1960's that the current name of British Lop was used.  The first breed book was produced in 1921 and by 1930s large numbers were being produced.

As a result of the new government policy after the 2nd world war it started a decline as it was not one of the 3 main breeds recommended to bolster the British Pig industry.  In the 1960s and 70s it hit its real low point with it thought only 11 breeders were left.  Although numbers are now slightly raised, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust has now put it on the Priority list (highest level f risk)

Uses

The breed was developed to be able to support itself primarily on grazing, and is still often raised outdoors.  It has a good ability to put on lean weight and is particularly noted for a gentle temperament.  As a result it is a great option for extensive farming and small holders.  It produces leans tasty pork meat.