Pigs: Berkshire

Country of Origin 

Berkshire, England

Australian Status

International Status

Vulnerable in its home country the UK.

Breeds traits

A medium sized breed, sows weigh around 220kg and boars 280kg. The Berkshire is a compact, short legged breed with a dished face, medium length snout and prick ears. They are black with white “socks”, white tail and a white mark on the face.

History

The Berkshire pig has the oldest herd book and the original Berkshires were thought to have been present on the first fleet.

The Berkshire is probably the most suited of the old breeds to modern production standards and can be grown commercially quite successfully without the back fat problems of the Tamworth, Large Black and WSB. Berkshires have good eye muscle and ham areas and they will develop marbling in heavier carcasses. They are well regarded by chefs and butchers alike.

The most successful Berkshire stud in Australia is Lynjoleen owned by Colin and Joy Leinert, they have exhibited Berkshires at for 53 years at Royal shows and exported to 23 countries. 

History in Australia

Thought to have arrived on the first fleet.

Breed Organisation

Australian Pig Breeders Association.

Australian Population

2025 - 41 registrations, 5 herds

Photo credit

Berkshire piglets, entered into the RBTA's 2020 IHBW photo competition by Jason Bates.

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