Red Wattle Hogs: Saving a Threatened Species

At Rustic Road Farm, we raise heritage Red Wattle hogs. Because of their dwindling numbers, the Livestock Conservancy has placed this species on the Threatened list of heritage breeds. Read more about the history of the Red Wattle on the Livestock Conservancy site.

How Red Wattles Got to Rustic Road Farm
When we first thought of raising hogs, we really just wanted to be able to supply ourselves with fresh pork. We decided to raise three Berkshire hogs that we acquired through another local farm. The plan was to keep the meat from one hog and sell the meat from the other two.

This plan worked so well that we decided that for the next round, we would raise seven hogs. We again had success with the Berkshires, but when a virus broke out among the local herds, we had to look elsewhere for our next hogs. Marc had read about Red Wattle hogs previously, and when we found a supplier in Michigan, we decided to make the five-hour drive and bring home three baby Red Wattles.

The Red Wattles were raised with two other hog breeds, but one of our customers indicated a preference for the Red Wattle. In response, we decided to get more of the breed. Now, customers can’t get enough of this flavorful meat.

Ultimately, we didn’t decide — the customers did!

So we’re committed to raising Red Wattle hogs, which not only delights our customers but it also increases demand and improves the breed’s chances of survival. Once you’ve tasted Red Wattle pork, you’ll become as committed to the breed as we are.

Red Wattles have proven to be an excellent fit for us at Rustic Road Farm. They have a docile nature and are good foragers, and farm visitors love to watch them wallow in the mud on a warm summer day. We often supplement their feed with produce from the farm — they especially love sweet potatoes and pumpkins!

Taste Red Wattle for yourself by picking up some of the products we offer at the Rustic Road Farm market:

• Bacon
• Breakfast sausage
• Italian sausage
• Brats
• Pork chops

If you really love it, consider purchasing a whole or half hog, offered seasonally. Once ordered, we’ll contact you to review your order as deliver date approaches.

Half hogs are 4.00 per pound and full hogs are 3.50 per pound. Processing is extra. Weights are based on hanging weight of the pig and are typically 100 pounds per half. Processing fees are generally $150 per half depending on how you choose to have your share cut.  After you place your deposit we will email you cut instructions to review. Rustic Road will pick up your share from Eickman’s processing and have it ready at the farm for you. 

Now accepting reservations. Next estimated date of meat delivery: October & November 2023.