The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Goats => Topic started by: Orinlooper on May 24, 2020, 09:40:02 am

Title: Thinking of keeping goats
Post by: Orinlooper on May 24, 2020, 09:40:02 am

How much land do you need?

I have two acres in mind, considering either goats or alpaca/lamas?

Which would be easier to keep and which will keep all the grass weeds down the best?

We have some ten year old walnut trees which I don’t want to get ruined

Title: Re: Thinking of keeping goats
Post by: roddycm on May 24, 2020, 07:43:22 pm

You will find the Alpacas easier than goats, in my opinion as a goat keeper. Either way you will need to fence the trees off... goats, alpacas, sheep, cows, horses etc etc will all eat walnut trees. Don't be put off though. With the right fencing you will be fine :)

Title: Re: Thinking of keeping goats
Post by: bj_cardiff on May 24, 2020, 08:04:05 pm

Goats don't really graze grass that well. They will be more interested in stripping the bark on the trees and climbing the fencing to eat any hedging.. Sounds like Alpaca would siut you better (having never owned one)..

Title: Re: Thinking of keeping goats
Post by: Penninehillbilly on June 06, 2020, 11:23:21 am

Boer goats may suit, still need to fence the trees, but they are happier grazing than the dairy breeds. And tend to be a bit more laid back. Would still need shelter though.