Moon Ridge Pigs

With its lop ears and long, deep body, the Large
Black is Britain's only all-black pig. Extremely docile, and very hardy, it is
ideally suited to simple outdoor systems. These characteristics, coupled with
its black skin, make the Large Black ideal for a wide range of climatic
conditions. In fact, by 1935, pigs of this breed had been exported to well over
30 countries.

The breed originates from the Old English Hog
established in the 16th and 17th centuries. Described by Parkinson in 1810:
"They are distinguished by their gigantic size, they are the largest of the kind
I have ever seen, and as perfect a make as possible in pigs; their heads are
large, with very long ears hanging down on each side of the face, so they can
scarcely see their way."

Large Black sows are renowned as excellent mothers with exceptional
milking ability. They are able to rear sizeable litters off simple rations and a
placid temperament ensures they can be contained behind a single strand of
electric fencing

Current demand for meat produced from traditional
breeds of pigs raised extensively is now promoting a growth in the number of
breeders keeping Large Blacks as this particular breed is much appreciated for
its succulent taste and eating quality.