Goat

Capra hircus

The domestic goat (Capra hircus) is a hardy, adaptable livestock species descended largely from wild bezoar-type goats of western Asia. People keep goats for milk, meat, fiber, hides, brush control, packing, and companionship, with breeds shaped for very different climates and purposes. Goats are browsing ruminants with nimble feet, strong social behavior, and a habit of testing fences, feed bins, and anything else within reach. Horns, coat type, ear shape, and size vary widely by breed.

Good goat management starts with secure fencing, dry shelter, clean water, forage, minerals formulated for goats, and enough herd companionship. Hoof trimming, parasite control, vaccination, kidding support, and body condition scoring are routine tasks, not extras. Dairy goats need milking hygiene and udder monitoring; fiber goats need shearing or combing; meat herds focus on growth, mothering, and market timing. Breeding records should track breed, parentage, health, milk or fiber traits, and kidding outcomes because casual selection can quickly spread structural or disease problems.