Depending on the farm’s objectives, a certain number of goats may be required to turn a profit. A fair guideline for dairy goats is 2-4 goats per person for a family’s milk supply. However, a larger herd is required for the production of commercial milk. It is advised to keep at least 20 meat goats to turn a profit.
The capacity of goats to clear brush and other vegetation is well known. They are not, however, the best for clearing woods. In contrast to the larger trees present in wooded areas, they favor eating leaves and little branches. While it is possible to clear understory vegetation from woods using goats, it is not advisable to rely on them to clear entire forests. What Plants Poison Goats and Why?
It’s well known that goats can eat just about everything. However, some plants should be avoided since they are poisonous to goats. Rhododendron, azalea, yew, hemlock, and many other plants fall within this category. It’s critical to conduct study on local harmful plants, identify them, and keep goats away from them.
Do Goats Require Heat During the Winter? Despite their reputation for toughness, goats need protection from extremely cold temperatures. Although they can withstand a wide range of temperatures, they should have access to a heated shelter when the outside temperature drops below freezing. A more complex structure with insulation and a heating system may be used instead of a straightforward barn with straw bedding.
Finally, goats are among the most successful small agricultural animals. But it’s crucial to comprehend how many goats are required to turn a profit, their restrictions when clearing woodlands, the plants that are poisonous to them, and their winter housing requirements. Goat farming may be a lucrative business with the right upkeep and management.