Angeln Saddleback
The Angeln Saddleback, or Angler Sattelschwein, is a German heritage breed of domestic pig from the Angeln peninsula of Schleswig-Holstein. It was shaped in the twentieth century from local regional pigs with Saddleback-type influence, producing a large, deep-bodied animal with lop ears and a black coat interrupted by a broad white belt over the shoulders and forelegs. Like other traditional saddleback pigs, it carries more fat cover than lean commercial lines and is associated with hardy outdoor keeping and flavorful pork.
Most Angeln Saddlebacks are kept today in small herds, direct-market pork systems, and conservation programs rather than large confinement units. They make good use of pasture, roughage, and woodland forage, but breeding females still need adequate protein and minerals for milk and strong litters. Because numbers have been low, herd books and careful mate selection are important for maintaining genetic diversity. Strong fences, wallows in hot weather, dry bedding in winter, and calm handling suit the breed's size and steady but purposeful nature.
