The Gloucestershire Old Spots pig is a breed that is very ancient, even this breed is present in pictures. Since the beginning of the 20th century, this breed has been considered a pedigree breed. The name of this race has its origin in the city of origin of this race that is in Gloucestershire in the valley of Berkeley in England. Although the origin of this breed is not exact, it is said that this breed arose through the crossing of the Gloucestershire breed and the unimproved Berkshire.
Today the ascending races of the race Gloucestershire Old Spots pig are extinct. As a culture in England, it is maintained that the spots of this breed are produced because the pigs fall apples and this is what causes the black spots. This race in the 60s was about to become extinct. After that, the population has been growing slowly.
Characteristics of Gloucestershire Old Spots Pig
The Gloucestershire Old Spots pig is a large breed. The males of this breed become larger than the females of this breed, weighing up to 140 Kg. While the females weigh between 120 to 130 Kg. The body of this breed is large, and with a lot of meat in various areas of its body. Both the hind legs and the front legs are thick and are at the same level. That is why the back of this breed remains very straight, and the belly of this breed is prominent and protrudes several centimeters.
This breed has large ears, and they are drooping, so much that they cover the face and reach the nose, and are leaning forward. The coat of this breed has short hair and is usually beige in most of its body. Although this race has several black spots, which are not uniform. Usually, these spots are on the back, or on the ears and face. Formerly they were very strict about the spots of this race, and could only be in 2 places.
Nowadays the farmers do not approve of that condition, and they do not care where the spots have this breed. However, the spots should be black, and not blue, and should be a good mark. The tail is short and thin, and it is e shape. The females of this breed become good mothers. In addition, the female gets to keep their young in the open air and teach them how to feed on the grass.
Usage
The Gloucestershire Old Spots pig although in the past this race was only used as a pedigree, and as an exhibition. With the passage of time, the use of this breed has changed. Nowadays this breed is of a single purpose and is uses for the production of meat. Due to its large size, it produces large quantities of meat, as well as good hams. It is more the meat of this race is considered of very good quality and is perfect for the production of sausages. You may also like to read Dutch Landrace pig
Food
The Gloucestershire Old Spots pig is a breed that from its origin this race has been maintained with feeding in an intensive pasture. They usually had it on farms where apples were grown. And this race not only ate grass but also fed all the fruits they had at their fingertips. As a resistant breed, it can be maintained all year round by grazing. Although this breed is highly foddered and loves to consume vegetables. Because he loves to eat vegetables this breed is called garden pigs.
Special Features
The Gloucestershire Old Spots pig is a tough breed that keeps eating outdoors all year round. However, even though this breed may be in the field all day long, it must have a stable or shelter to sleep at night. Farmers do not have to spend so much time caring for this breed, as it is a very independent breed. It is preferable that this breed be raise in dry places than in areas full of mud. You may also like to read Guinea Hog pig
Although like all pigs, it may be muddy, because of its large size, it would be difficult for farmers to manage. It can also withstand different types of weather, without having any disease. Although one of the characteristics that make this breed is preferred, is that despite its size is very easy to handle.
They have a docile nature, and can easily interact with people. Today this breed is very well known, and there are at least 4 masculine lines, and 15 feminine lines. In the early 1900s, this breed was exported to the United States. In addition to being uses to crossbreed with other species and improve those breeds.
FAQ
What are Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs used for?
The Gloucestershire Old Spot (GOS) is an old breed of pig that has been around since the late 17th century. It was originally bred in the English County of Gloucestershire and was mainly used as a ‘bacon pig’ – meaning it was selected for its ability to produce fat and bacon over all other pork products.
How much do Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs cost?
The cost of buying a Gloucestershire Old Spot pig can vary greatly depending on where the pig is purchased and what type of breed it is. On average, these pigs typically sell for around $2,000 or more.
What is a Gloucestershire Old Spots English pasture pig?
The Gloucestershire Old Spots (GOS) is a heritage breed of English pig that originated in England over 300 years ago. It is known for its white coat with black spots and its docile nature. The breed was developed mainly through three traditional systems: culling, selection, and crossing with other breeds to improve certain traits.
Conclusion
This article has been a long read, but it’s important to know all the background information about this ancient breed before deciding if you want to purchase one. If you still have questions or concerns after reading this blog post, please feel free to contact me and I will be happy to answer any of your questions. Finally, congratulations on making it through!
As a reference: Wikipedia
