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Characteristics

Weight: Male/female 150–300 lb (68–136 kg).

Colour: Usually solid black; occasionally white points at the feet and tip of nose (due to a recessive gene).

Upright ears and a curly tail.

Unique to the United States, the American guinea hog is a critically endangered breed. It was originally imported from the Canary Islands and West Africa in the 17th century. Having been crossed with breeds that are now extinct, it is impossible to create an accurate picture of this animal’s true history. One possible ancestor is the small, black Essex pig, known to have lived in the southeastern United States where most American guinea hogs are found today.

In the early days, the breed was expected to forage for its own food—roots, grass, nuts, rodents, and even snakes. The American guinea hog is now kept on small farms and large ranches, where it keeps the area clear of vermin. The hog’s friendly, docile nature is an added bonus; this tough little pig is not averse to having a good tummy rub and a back scratch.