Portuguese Autochtonous Breeds

The autochthonous breeds are an important representation of cultural identity because they have been specially bred for the needs of the local population and the characteristics of the soil and climate in each region. They therefore carry indelible marks of their respective regions of origin. With the modernisation of the agricultural sector, some of these breeds have been replaced by others from di erent parts of the world in order to increase the pro tability of production. For this reason, among the 47 autochthonous breeds existing in Portugal, several are currently at risk of extinction, with a few dozen representative specimens and a very small number of breeders.

Safeguarding of this cultural heritage is urgently required to promote knowledge of these breeds and ensure their preservation. Following the stamp issue in 2018 which featured six breeds of cattle, sheep and goats, six more native Portuguese autochthonous breeds are presented here, including pigs, chickens and donkeys.