Livestock

The domestic pig or boar (Sus scrofa) is derived from the wild boar of Eurasia. The pig is an ancient domesticate, and has been cultivated for thousands of years, from the tropics to the temperate zone. Pigs are raised mostly as a source of meat. Pigs are an extremely productive type of livestock because they have large litters (as many as 12 babies at a time), and they are quite efficient in converting their feed into body growth.

There are many varieties of pigs, adapted for various climates, cultural conditions, and uses. The white Yorkshire is a commonly cultivated, light-colored, rapidly growing variety, with erect ears.