4-H Livestock Skillathon 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The Chester White breed of hogs is recognized for its origins in Pennsylvania, where it was developed in the late 19th century. This breed is distinguished by its white color and drooping ears. Chester Whites are known for their excellent maternal traits, good growth rates, and ability to adapt to various environments and management practices.

This breed gained popularity in the 1900s due to its favorable characteristics for breeding and production, particularly in the Midwest and eastern United States. Breeders valued them for their strong mothering capabilities and prolificacy, leading to their establishment as a significant breed in the swine industry.

In contrast, Durocs originated in the northeastern United States, primarily in New Jersey. Berkshires trace their roots to England and are noted for their black color with white points, while Yorkshires also originated in England and are recognized for their large size and ability to produce lean meat. Each of these breeds has its unique characteristics and breeding history, distinguishing them from the Chester White.