British Lop

The British Lop is a large white heritage pig from the West Country, especially Devon and Cornwall. Older names such as National Long White Lop-Eared describe its look well: a deep, long-bodied pig with heavy ears that fall over the face and a calm, substantial frame. It was bred for bacon and general farm pork before modern commercial hybrids took over much of the market. Today it is usually seen in rare-breed herds, small farms, and outdoor pork systems.

British Lops are often good-tempered and capable outdoors, but their size means they need strong fences, firm gateways, and enough room to turn and lie comfortably. White skin can burn in summer, so shade, wallows, or covered runs are more than cosmetic comforts. Mature pigs can become overfat if fed like fast-finishing hybrids, while young pigs still need enough protein for frame and muscle. Conservation breeders pay attention to registration, family lines, teat number, legs, and litter records because the breed's population is limited and losing diversity would reduce its long-term usefulness.