The Turopolje pig ( hr, Turopoljska svinja) is a breed of

pig The pig (''Sus domesticus''), often called swine, hog, or domestic pig when distinguishing from other members of the genus '' Sus'', is an omnivorous, domesticated, even-toed, hoofed mammal. It is variously considered a subspecies of ''Sus ...

named for

Turopolje Turopolje () is a region in Croatia situated between the capital city Zagreb and Sisak. The administrative center of the region Turopolje is the town of Velika Gorica. Geography Turopolje forms a part of Posavina, a region to the south of Za ...

Croatia , image_flag = Flag of Croatia.svg , image_coat = Coat of arms of Croatia.svg , anthem = "Lijepa naša domovino"("Our Beautiful Homeland") , image_map = , map_caption = , capit ...

, where it originates. This distinctive-looking swine, which has black spots on a white or grey skin with drooping ears, is very rare, and is likely nearing extinction. It is one of the older breeds of European pigs, though it may have had infusions of

Berkshire Berkshire ( ; in the 17th century sometimes spelt phonetically as Barkeshire; abbreviated Berks.) is a historic county in South East England. One of the home counties, Berkshire was recognised by Queen Elizabeth II as the Royal County of Berk ...

or other bloodlines in the 19th century. Though it is relatively small and not fast growing, the breed is known for its hardiness under

free range Free range denotes a method of farming husbandry where the animals, for at least part of the day, can roam freely outdoors, rather than being confined in an enclosure for 24 hours each day. On many farms, the outdoors ranging area is fenced, ...

conditions. Once one of the most widespread swine in its native country, the change from extensive to

intensive pig farming Intensive pig farming, also known as pig factory farming, is the primary method of pig production, in which grower pigs are housed indoors in group-housing or straw-lined sheds, whilst pregnant sows are housed in gestation crates or pens and g ...

in the mid-20th century discouraged its use.

References

External links

Carcass Composition of Turopolje Pig

Turopolje pig origin
Picture of sleeping (and video of snoring) Turopolje pigs in South Tyrol: https://picasaweb.google.com/Fritz.Joern/HofSommer13#5912816864147895490 Pig breeds Pig breeds originating in Croatia {{pig-stub