1()8 .loiHNAl. OF THK J)Ki'AETMENT OF AGRICULTURE. AuG., 1922. 



slie lias a highly developed nervous system and, in consequence, is 

 easily disturbed, as the result of which her litter suffers. Berkshires 

 are noted for their early matuiity, despite the fact that this 

 characteristic is not usually very apparent when they are weaners, 

 as they invariably appear small and lacking- in growthiness. Owinj? 

 to the "sows being only moderately good milkers, one often finds rather 

 uneven litters. 



At this Institution, Berkshires at HI months of age have averaged 

 between 180 and 190 lb. live weight. The Berkshire may be classified 

 as belonging to the lard type of swine. They ordinarily carry too 

 much fat over the back — close upon three inches — and have not a 

 sufficiently long enough side to warrant their being classified as 

 l>aconers. For the production of porkers, the Berkshire is to be ranked 

 in the first flight. 



Bred and exhibited by Mr. Arthur Hiscnck. Age 8 months 27 days. 

 Combined wei-ht 682 lb. 



In South Africa the Berkshire (boar) Large Black (sow) cross has 

 been used extensively for the production of baconers, and has been 

 attended with highly satisfactory results. The reciprocal cross has 

 also been practised, but is not recommended for the reason that it is 

 less profitable owing to the lack of prolificacy in the Berkshire sow 

 as compared with the Large Black sow. The progeny of the above 

 cross have proved, excellent doers, and have scaled over 200 lb. at 

 8i months of age when they are ordinarily dispatched to the bacon 

 factory. There is no doubt that the Berkshire boar has contributed 

 very materially to the success of this cross, particularly in so far as 

 development of ham, firmness of fieshing, and quality are concerned. 



in <onclusion, mention must be nmde of the activity and foraging 

 ability of the Berkshire. Owing to their dark colour, and otlier good 

 cliaracteiist ics alreadv mentioned, thev tU'e suitable for Sontli African 



