DWARF GOAT
Capra hircus
DESCRIPTION
Dwarf Goat, also known as the Nigerian Dwarf Goat, is a small breed of goat that is characterized by its compact size and friendly demeanor. They typically stand about 17 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder and have a variety of coat colors, including black, white, and brown. These goats are known for their playful behavior and are often kept as pets or for milk production due to their high butterfat content.
FUN FACTS
- Dwarf Goats are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them popular pets
- They are also excellent milk producers, with some individuals yielding up to a quart of milk per day, which is rich in butterfat and ideal for cheese making.|These goats are incredibly agile and can jump up to five feet high, which is impressive given their small size
- Their playful antics often entertain their owners, and they are known to form strong bonds with both humans and other animals
QUICK INFO
Lifespan12-15 years in captivity
Average Weight30-75 lbs
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — they are social animals that thrive in herds.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonFall (September-November)
- Habitat
- Dwarf Goats thrive in a variety of habitats, including pastures, woodlands, and farms. They require shelter from extreme weather conditions and access to open space for grazing.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Savanna
- Native Range
- Originally from West Africa, particularly Nigeria, they have been introduced to various regions worldwide.
- Continent
- Africa, North America
- Countries
- Nigeria, United States, Canada
- Diet
- Dwarf Goats are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses, hay, and browse from shrubs and trees. They may also enjoy fruits and vegetables as treats.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, hay, shrubs
- Social Structure
- group — they are social animals that thrive in herds.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
VU
30-75 lbs
Weight
17-21 inches at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- varied, including black, white, brown, and combinations thereof
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger and have larger horns than females
- Lifespan
- 12-15 years in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 150 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-12 months
- Breeding Season
- Fall (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Dwarf Goats is stable, with many being bred for both companionship and agricultural purposes.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Dwarf Goats face threats from habitat loss and overbreeding in some areas. However, they are generally not considered endangered.
- Predators
- dogs, coyotes, foxes, and birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- Dwarf Goats can use their agility to escape predators and may also butt with their heads if threatened.
- Compatible Animals
- sheep, chickens, ducks
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon