Pigs breed profile

Tamworth

  • Heritage bacon pig
  • England / Ireland
  • medium
  • Temperament: active
  • Heritage
  • Conservancy: Threatened

Tamworth is the heritage bacon pig — long bodies, high lean-meat ratios, and exceptional foraging on pasture and woodland. Strong fit for heritage direct-marketing and woodland-pig systems.

Handler safety note

Active and curious. Boars dangerous; standard swine protocols.

Production & size

Mature size and output.

Female weight

400–500 lbs

Male weight

500–650 lbs

Daily gain

1.2 lbs/day

Reproductive traits

Gestation

114 days

Litter size

8

Seasonality

year round

Maternal

excellent

Health & climate

Parasite resistance

good

Heat tolerance

good

Cold hardiness

excellent

Humidity tolerance

good

Common health concerns

  • Athletic and active — fencing must be substantial

Management requirements

Experience

some experience

Housing

basic shelter

Fencing

electric

Feed system

pasture, grain supplement

Market access

Commercial market

limited

Direct-market appeal

excellent

Premium potential

Yes

Premier heritage bacon breed in the U.S. — high direct-marketing premium for cured products.

Tamworth Swine Association

Sources

Data quality: extension verified