The British Saddleback are a rare breed of pig on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust at risk watchlist.The Saddleback is known to be a very hardy breed well suited to an extensive system. Average litter size in 2009 was around 9.98 piglets and the breed has excellent maternal instincts. The breed is very docile and suited to outdoor systems. The British Saddleback is the amalgamation of two breeds: the Wessex Saddleback and the Essex. There were black and white belted pigs in the west country as far back as the early 19th century and they were much renowned for their bacon. The breed is dual purpose and makes a good pork pig or bacon pig if taken to heavier weights. The meat is much in demand and suited to direct marketing.