Large Black

Also Known By: Cornwall, Devon, Lop-eared Black

The Large Black was developed from the black pigs of Devon and Cornwall and the European pigs found in   
East Anglia. In the early part of this century the Large Black were used for the production of pork in outdoor
 operations. Its coat color makes it tolerant of many sun born illnesses and its hardiness and grazing ability
 make it an efficient meat producer. Large Blacks are also known for their mothering ability, milk capacity    
and prolificacy.                                                                                                                                     

Early selection was toward the bacon type and now the breed is characterized by great length, a good depth of body and strong backs. Formerly fed to enormous weights to produce carcasses with a large amount of fat, Large Blacks are now used for lean pork and bacon production. Large Blacks are large, just slightly smaller than Yorkshires, and always black. They have long heads and straight faces, with lop/ drooped ears. In fact, the ears are so large they cover much of the face and seem to obstruct the view from the eyes. The breed is known for its very docile nature, and some have suggested that its obstructed vision contributes to its unaggressive temperament. The breed is said to have high levels of hardiness and thriftiness, with light shoulders, and good sides and hams. While the mothering ability and litter size are good, the breed does not seem to be as early maturing as most other breeds. The hair is fine and rather thick with the black pigmentation being quite heavy, a characteristic not favored by processors.