Frisa Valtellinese

The Frisa Valtellinese is an Italian Alpine goat from Valtellina and nearby valleys of Lombardy. It is a local dairy and kid-meat breed shaped by steep pasture, seasonal movement, and small mountain farms. Animals are usually medium to large and sturdy, with a dark coat, often black, set off by white markings on the face, belly, and lower legs. Many are horned, and the breed's striped appearance helps separate it from plainer Alpine dairy goats.

Management often follows a semi-extensive mountain pattern: grazing and browsing through the growing season, hay and shelter in winter, and milk used for local cheese or family consumption. Sound feet, udder health, and protection from harsh weather are important in the rocky valleys where the breed developed. Frisa Valtellinese goats are not common outside northern Italy, so breeders interested in them should verify source herds and avoid casual crossing if the goal is conservation.

Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Brown, Brown and White, Buckskin, Chamoisee, Cou Blanc, Cou Clair, Cream, Fawn, Gold, Moonspotted, Pinto, Red, Red and White, Roan, Spotted, Sundgau, Swiss Marked, Tan, White