| Other names | Russian: Уpжумcкaя Urzhumskaya |
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| Country of origin | Russia |
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The urzhum, also known as Urzhumskaya, is a breed of pig used for its meat originating from the Kirov region in Russia. They are a large breed with long, white bodies, strong legs, heavy ears that are slightly tilted forward, and thick bristles along their body. [1] The meat is primarily used in the production of bacon. [2] Urzhum pigs’ high-quality, reliable meat is integral to the pork production and supports the economic success of pork in the region. [3]
This breed first appeared in Urzhum, Russia, for which it got its name, during the late 1950’s as part of a breeding program to create a breed to thrive in the local climate while also yielding quality meat. It is known for being hardy and robust while also having a prized quality of meat. [3] The breed became officially recognized as unique in 1957. [1]
The breed is considered a prime example of the success of the pig breeding program in the region. [3] It was derived from breeding local kinds of pig with the large white breed. [3] It is praised for its meat yields with an average weight of 250 kilograms. [4] Boars of the breed have a weight of 320 kilograms. [4] The time taken to gain 100 kilograms of mass is around 206 days. [1] Body lengths of adults vary between 155 centimeters to 190 centimeters across females and males. [2] The breed also boasts high meat quality in terms of tenderness, juiciness, and flavor. [3]
Another major reason why this breed is seen as a success is because of the various advantages outside of meat production. They are highly adaptable and resilient, helping them withstand extreme climates. [2] [3] The sows of the breed have good mothering ability and high fertility with litters tending to have between 12 and 15 kids. [2] [4] Urzhum pigs are adapted to digesting the feed given to them due to the conditions of their location. [1] It is also adaptable to various conditions of husbandry, making them suitable for intensive and extensive farming practices. [3]
As of 1980, the breed’s population was 107,300 with 39,900 purebreds. [1] The Urzhum is bred to be improved in 7 breeding farms and 2 breeding centers for raising and crossbreeding to improve growth rate and meat quality. [1]
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