Nigerian Dwarf Goat - Capra hircus hircus nigerian
Habitat:
Almost all habitats
Range:
West Africa – Domesticated worldwide
Activity Cycle:
diurnal
Features:
They come in many colors: white, black, red, cream and patterns such as buckskin (brown with a black cape over the head and neck along with other black markings) and chamoisee with or without white spots. Some have white "frosting" on the ears. Although most are naturally horned, most breeders dehorn them at a young age (usually 2 weeks of age) for safety to the goat, his/her herd-mates, and human care-givers. Some Nigerian Dwarfs have blue eyes, which is a dominant trait in goats.
Size:
Males can get up to 2 feet tall and females are slightly shorter. Weight: 60 to 80 lbs
Social Structure:
Goats are herd animals. An old female usually leads the herd. They raise their hackles (hair along the spine) when alarmed. Domesticated dwarf goats are gentle and lovable. Even breeding males are handled easily.
Life Expectancy:
8-12 years
Diet:
In the wild they eat hay and grass. In captivity they eat hay, alfalfa, and herbivore diet. Prey to large carnivores and humans.
Reproduction:
Unlike other goats, with the exception of Pygmy Goats, Nigerian dwarfs can breed year-round. Nigerian Dwarf does kid after approximately 155 days of pregnancy. Does usually have twins, but triplets or quadruplets are common.
Status:
Rare in the wild, but found widely as livestock
Interesting Facts:
- Nigerian dwarf goats are a dairy breed that provide a surprising amount of milk for their size. They can produce on average about two-and-a-half pounds of milk a day throughout the entire lactation period.
- Although the African pygmy goat and Nigerian dwarf goat share similar origins, it is each a separate and distinct breed.
- Nigerian dwarf dairy goats and African pygmy goats have the same scientific name because both species are listed as wild goats.
- Herd animals where an old female usually leads the herd.
- They are different from pigmy goats because of their longer bodies and pigmy goats have heavier bones.
- They have square pupils, believed to help cut glare when climbing mountains. Goats and octopus are the only animals that have this.
Video:
Socialize
