Because there is only modest interest by most national governments in the preservation of rare farm animal breeds, much of this work is done by non-governmental organizations. ((Contributed by Michael Kubisch.)) These are often operated on shoestring budgets and frequently require some pretty imaginative financial acrobatics to exist. Below is a list of some of these organizations. I realize it is likely to be incomplete — lists like this always are — but I hope it’s at least a fair representation of the types of organizations that are involved in this effort. Some are simply umbrella organizations of breeders of specific breeds, while others have actual facilities that produce animals. Some focus on one breed, while others have a barnyard full of different critters.
I can personally attest to the effectiveness of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, having been a member a while back, but I don’t really want to provide any specific endorsements here. If you think rare breed preservation is a worthwhile endeavor (and who wouldn’t), check out these websites, and if you find an organization that appeals to you, join and support it. If, on the other hand, I have omitted your favorite organization, just post a comment with a link and I will publish a more complete list in the future.
AUSTRALIA
Rare Breeds Trust of Australia
Eastwind Rare Breeds Farm
CANADA
Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Foundation
Rare Breeds Canada
FRANCE
Pigsinfrance.com
GERMANY
Arche Warder
GREECE
Rare Breeds International
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand Rare Breeds
UK
Rare Breeds Survival Trust (they publish “The Ark“)
Oban Rare Breeds Farm Park
Andalucian Giant Donkey
US
SVF Foundation
American Livestock Breeds Conservancy
American rare poultry breed conservation sites
Heritage Breeds Conservancy
Equus Survival Trust
Cackle Hatchery
And there are even a few sites specializing in offering rare breed products: