102 



DOMESTIC ANIMALS. 



weight at twelve months of age, which latter weight they sel- 

 dom exceed. They are clean feeders, and require much less 

 than any other breed known. 



For large hogs, a cross between these and the Berkshire is 

 very desirable, and is preferred by Western breeders ; but for a 

 small breeder, or for family use, the pure Suffolks are prefer- 

 able.* 



5. The Essex Breed. The Essex hogs are mostly black and 

 white, the head arid hinder parts being black and the back and 

 belly white. The most esteemed Essex breeds, Youatt says, 

 are entirely black, and are distinguished by having small teat- 

 like appendages of the skin depending from the under part of 

 the neck. They have smaller heads than the Berkshire hogs, 

 and long, thin, upright ears ; short bristles ; a fine skin ; good 

 hind quarters, and a deep, round carcass. They are also small 

 boned, and their flesh is delicately flavored. They produce 

 large litters, but are reputed bad nurses. 



Fig. 29. 



THE ESSEX HOG. 



6. The Chester Breed. This breed originated in Chester 

 County, Pennsylvania, and is not so widely known as, according 



* Country Gentleman. 



