Nigerian Dwarf Goat
Basic Information:
Scientific Name: Capra hircus
Habitat: While originating in Western Africa, the Nigerian dwarf goat has since become a popular domestic breed in the United States.
Diet: Nigerian dwarf goats eat small plants and weeds.
Size: 1.4 to 1.6 feet tall / 2 to 2.5 feet long
Weight: About 75 pounds
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
Distribution Map:
I.U.C.N. Conservation Status:
What does this mean?
Least Concern – a species determined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (I.U.C.N.) to be pervasive, abundant, and thriving.
Our Nigerian Dwarf Goats:
Tasha (Female) – Born July 13, 2010
Arya (Female) – Born June 27, 2014
Cloe (Female) – Born March 4, 2023
Stella (Female) – Born March 4, 2023
Zozie (Female) – Born March 5, 2023
About Nigerian Dwarf Goats:
Nigerian Dwarf Goats derive from a variety of small goats imported from Western African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Guinea, Gambia, Liberia, Mali, Niger, and Senegal to the United States between 1930 and 1960 for display in zoos. While initially used as a show breed due to their appearance and docility, Nigerian Dwarf Goats eventually became valued for their milk production as well. Today, they are recognized by the American Dairy Goat Association!
Did You Know?!
- A Nigerian Dwarf Goat doe can produce up to 2 quarts of milk per day that is higher in butterfat and protein than milk from most dairy goat breeds.
- Nigerian Dwarf Goats are often beneficial to pastures because they eat weeds and plants that many other livestock species won’t touch. These weeds and plants include blackberry bushes and ivy (including poison ivy and poison oak).
- Since Nigerian dwarf goats are docile, gentle, and playful, they make very good companion pets!