Angora goats take their name from the ancient Ottoman province near Ankara, Turkey. Their history goes back over 2000 years. They lived in the Anatolian valleys and produced mohair fiber for the textile industry.
Originally, these goats were quite small. By breeding them with other local goats, they became larger and more productive. This step was key in spreading the production of mohair around the globe.
In 1838, Sultan Mahmud II sent twelve Angora goats to South Africa. This event marked a new beginning in mohair production there. The United States welcomed its first Angora goats in 1849. Ever since, these goats have been in high demand worldwide.
Angora goats show how well they can adapt to different places. They’re found in large numbers in places like Turkey, South Africa, Argentina, and Texas. Even though they do well in many climates, they don’t do as well in the cold and damp. These goats need extra care and food in these conditions to stay healthy.
- Angora goats have a history dating back 2000 years and are named after the ancient Ottoman province around Ankara, Turkey.
- Their production of mohair fiber has been utilized in the textile industry for centuries.
- Crossbreeding with local goats has enhanced the size and production of Angora goats.
- The exportation of Angora goats from Turkey to South Africa and the United States played significant roles in expanding mohair production.
- Angora goats have successfully adapted to various environments but require special care in cold and damp conditions.
- The scientific name for these goats is Capra aegagrus hircus
Angora Goat Appearance and Characteristics
Angora goats are medium-sized. Does weigh 70-110 lbs, bucks 180-225 lbs. They have a strong build.
Angoras are known for their long ears. These ears are both functional and make them look interesting.
Their fleece is a prized feature. It’s long, white, and curly. This mohair is soft and shiny, used in making quality products.
“The dominant gene in Angora goats results in their stunning white coloration. However, selective breeding has also introduced black, red, and brown colors in solid, striped, or belted patterns.”
Angoras also have unique horns. They curve away from the neck. Their faces are typically free of fleece and have a straight nose.
For more details on Angora goats, see the table below:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-sized |
| Height | N/A |
| Weight | Does: 70-110 lbs Bucks: 180-225 lbs |
| Colors | Dominantly white, but also black, red, and brown in various patterns |
| Horns | Bend back and away from the neck |
Climate Tolerance and Adaptability of Angora Goats
Angora goats have amazing ability to live in different climates. They come from the cold, dry Anatolian plateau in Turkey. This makes them skilled at surviving in these conditions naturally.
This group of goats has changed over time. They now have a long undercoat and less outer coat. This helps them make more mohair but makes them feel the cold and damp more. So, they’re not seen as tough animals, even with their valuable fleece.
Extra steps must be taken to keep Angora goats safe in extreme weather. This includes giving them the right shelter and food. These actions help keep them healthy and able to reproduce. They are crucial to keep their breed strong and adaptable to various climates.
Although Angora goats can face tough weather, they do well in many places. This is true only if they get good care, feeding, and shelter from the weather.
Breeders and caretakers can do a lot to help Angora goats thrive. Understanding their needs and adapting to them is key. This approach also helps get the most out of their mohair.
Behavior and Social Needs of Angora Goats
Angora goats are well-known for being calm, friendly, and chill. They love being around other goats. Their friendly nature and easy-going attitude are a joy. They are great for kids to take care of, too.
For new folks, it’s smart to begin with just a few goats. This way, you can learn how to take care of them before adding more. You’ll get to know what these goats need and how they act.
Yet, it’s key to remember that Angoras, while sweet, can get picked on by other types in a group. So, you might need to pay more attention to keep them safe and happy.
Care and Maintenance of Angora Goats
Looking after Angora goats is key for their health and happiness. They need the right food and healthcare to grow well and make good fiber. So, it’s vital to know these tips:
Nutrition
Angora goats must eat well to grow their beautiful fiber. They should have enough to eat for growth, making babies, and creating mohair. They love different foods like browse and forbs but need extra special food before breeding or if there’s no grass. A diet with enough protein, grain, and hay makes their mohair soft and healthy.
Healthcare
Keeping Angora goats healthy means always checking up on them. They might get worms or bugs, so it’s important to deworm and control parasites. Vaccines for common diseases like clostridium and tetanus are a must. A clean, dry home keeps them from getting sick and having foot troubles.
Shearing
Angora goats’ hair must be cut twice a year to stay in good shape and not tangle. Shearing keeps them cool in hot weather and safe from getting too cold in the cold. This job should be done in a calm place to avoid frightening them. After shearing, they need a cozy spot away from the cold and wet.
Water and Environmental Needs
Angora goats drink a lot of water, which is good for their digestion and health. They also need a dry and cozy place if the weather gets too extreme. A shelter with good air flow but no drafts is ideal for their health.
Recommended Number of Goats per Acre
The number of goats an acre can support depends on the grass quality. For good grass, 6-10 goats are okay per acre. But, if the grass is not so good, fewer goats should live there. Keeping an eye on the grass and moving the goats around helps keep their home just right for them.
| Health Issues | Nutrition | Diet | Food Consumption per Day | Water per Day | Shearing | Goats per Acre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goat worms, external parasites | Supplemental feeding, protein and grain supplements, hay | Browse, forbs, crop residues | Varies depending on age and stage of production | Access to clean water throughout the day | Twice a year | 6-10 goats per acre of good pasture |
By doing the right things with food, healthcare, and living space, your Angora goats will be healthy and happy.
Breeding and Uses of Angora Goats
Angora goats breed once a year. They have a pregnancy that lasts about 150 days. This results in kidding, or the birth of baby goats, happening in the spring. The baby goats weigh between 5-10 pounds when they are born.
These goats are mainly bred for their mohair. This is because mohair, their long, curly hair, is in high demand in the textile business. Their hair grows fast, about ¾ inch a month, and they need to be sheared twice a year. While Angora goats are great for mohair, other goat types are better for eating or providing milk.
People often raise Angora goats for their wool. This wool is used to make all kinds of things like clothes, blankets, and accessories. The mohair is so prized because it shines and provides warmth very well. If you want your own Angora goats, look for them with trusted breeders or at places like livestock auctions.