Tauernscheck

The Tauernscheck, or Tauern pied goat, is an Austrian alpine breed from the Hohe Tauern region. Its German name points to the irregular spotted pattern that makes the breed easy to recognize: black, brown, and white patches often appear in bold combinations, though exact markings vary from goat to goat. Beneath the color is a sturdy mountain dairy goat with strong legs, a lively temperament, and the sure-footedness needed for steep pastures and alpine summer grazing.

Tauernscheck goats are kept for milk, farmstead cheese, landscape grazing, and conservation of an old regional breed. They handle cold and rough forage well, but shelter from prolonged wet weather, good winter hay, and mineral supplementation are still necessary. Breeding programs pay attention to the pied coat, yet sound udders, hooves, fertility, and manageable behavior are just as important. Because numbers have been limited at times, conservation records and careful mate selection help protect genetic diversity.

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