A Rare Breeds Farm

 

 

In January 2007, Home Farm was awarded Rare Breeds accreditation by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) - the leading conservation charity working to restore Britain’s native livestock breeds. It is one of only 17 farm parks in the UK to have received the award which recognises their commitment to the conservation, breeding and promotion of rare or endangered breeds of farm animals.

The farm had to meet various criteria, involving not only the livestock, but the standards of the premises, the knowledge of the staff and detailed examination of pedigree records, movement information and health requirements. It now has to sustain two viable breeding units as part of its commitment to Rare Breeds and has chosen to concentrate on Tamworth pigs and Red Poll cattle.

The Farm has chosen Tamworths as the breed on which to base its rare breed accreditation.  Our Tamworth sow Tallulah had her first litter of pure bred piglets in March 2008,  enabling us to increase the numbers of this endangered breed.

The six breeding cows in the Red Poll breed will help to sustain what is considered one of the original native dual purpose breeds due to its dairy and beef qualities.

In May 2007 the Farm welcomed a flock of Leicester Longwool sheep. A very attractive breed developed during the late 18th century.