Auckland Island Pig

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Auckland Island Pig is a feral breed of domestic pig (Sus scrofa) found on subantarctic Auckland Island, New Zealand. Various introductions of pigs were made to the uninhabited island as a source of food for stranded sailors or visiting whalers, the first in 1807 with further liberations in 1840, 1842 and the 1890s. By the end of the 19th century the island held a thriving population of pigs of mixed origin which was largely undisturbed until the late 20th century, producing a distinctive breed.^[1]

A decision was made by New Zealand's Department of Conservation that species introduced to the Auckland Islands should be eradicated in the course of a program to restore the natural ecosystems. Consequently the Rare Breeds Conservation Society of New Zealand (RBCSNZ) decided to attempt to preserve the breed in captivity. In 1999 a RBCSNZ expedition caught and removed seventeen pigs, including several pregnant sows, from Auckland Island, transferring them to Invercargill, New Zealand. These animals have since bred successfully and the breed is not at risk.^[1]

These relatively pathogen free pigs have been used to derive a biocertified herd as a source of cells for xenotransplantation [1].

[edit] Description

Over the near two-century period between their original introduction to the island and the removal of breeding stock by the RBCSNZ, Auckland Island Pigs reverted to a wild type characterised by coats of thick, dark hair and straight tails. They have long, narrow heads and snouts. Most are black, with some black and tan, and occasionally with white patches. They are relatively small and very athletic.^[1]