Help us to preserve traditional and rare breed farm animals

We keep traditional breeds of farm animals. The sheep, pigs, goats, cows, and poultry that still feature in our childhood memories and picture books, but have almost vanished from the modern farm.

These breeds developed throughout the country, each one cherished and bred for its unique qualities and suitability to the land and climate of an area. Rare breeds are hardy, thrifty and highly resistant to the ailments that beset modern breeds of farm animals.

Why these breeds are at risk

Our world today is increasingly the same wherever you go. The same is true in farming, where artificial conditions and foods are created. Increasingly diversity is shunned by the big producers and uniformity (we would say boring) is the norm.

For example, 98% of British chickens bred for meat are reared intensively in factory farms. Almost without exception the same breed, the Ross Cobb, is used in every case. Birds like the Dorking or Derbyshire Redcap don't fit in and so are now endangered.

The same is true of sheep, cattle, and, especially, pigs. Mostly these breeds became rare because they did not match up with modern, intensive systems of production. They are more suited to a natural diet without artificial growth promoters. This means that they mature more slowly and are not so profitable for agribusiness.

Mainly for this reason, more than 20 unique breeds of British farm animals became extinct Between 1900 and 1973 - their genetic diversity lost forever. Lost also is the unique character and taste of their meat.

Is preserving rare & traditional breeds really so important?

It's not just taste we would lose! Nor their individual looks and charm. Rare and traditional breeds are becoming increasingly important in restoring and preserving our countryside - especially grassland habitats and wild flowers.

So, preserving rare and traditional breeds is an essential part of greener farming systems and helping the environment - as well as improving the quality of the food we eat!

You can help by visiting and spreading the word

Visiting the Farmcraft Rare Breed Centre will help you and your children understand the importance of rare and traditional farm animals. The knowledge gained will help you make informed decisions about what meat you buy and from whom. By creating a viable market for the produce of these animals we can ensure their survival and the vital continuance of their genetic heritage. Of course you will have a great day out too!

All breeds are displayed in neat paddocks so you can easily see the differences. Information on each breed can be found both by the paddocks and in the information centre.

It's very much hands on - "look but don't touch" doesn't apply.

Events

Through the year we run various events, including demonstrations, displays and creative working weekends. Call us on 01335 300059 or email for details and keep an eye on the local press for announcements.