Welcome to our article on Malabari goats! These goats are special and come from Kerala. They’ve been a big part of India’s rural economy for a long time. If you’re into farming, love livestock, or just want to learn, you’re in the right place.
Malabari goats, known too as Tellicherry or Cutch, are useful for many things. People raise them for their milk, meat, and skin. The skin is in demand for making leather. Also, their fur can be white, black, or anywhere in between.
All male Malabari goats, and some females, have beards. This gives them a unique look. They have medium heads, sometimes with a Roman nose, and ears that hang down.
One cool thing about them is they often have twins. About 50% of births result in twins. Sometimes, they even have triplets or quadruplets. This is great for farmers who want more goats without having more births.
These goats are friendly and easy to look after. This makes them great for families, even those with kids. They fit in well in different weather conditions, too. They can handle both hot and cold climates.
They usually graze during the day and eat more at home in the evening. They give about 0.5 to 1.5 liters of milk each day. Their milk period lasts for about 178 days.
Let’s dive into the world of Malabari goats. We’ll look at what makes them interesting and important. See why they’re loved by farmers and families. And learn about their role in the economy.
Goat Characteristics and Appearance
Malabari goats stand out for their unique traits and distinct looks. These goats are medium-sized, easy to handle because of their well-sized bodies. Mature males weigh between 43 to 46 kilograms, and females around 34 kilograms. Their size and weight make them manageable.
Their coat colors vary greatly, from all white to solid black, with no set pattern. This variety in color enhances their visual appeal and makes each goat special.
Many male and some female Malabari goats have beards. This feature is unique to them, adding to their charm. Their beards are significant, marking their faces with distinction.
They have medium-sized heads, with flat or slightly Roman noses. The ears of Malabari goats point outward and down, shaping their facial look. These features help define their overall appearance.
Some Malabari goats have small, twisted horns, adding to their natural beauty. Not all goats have horns, but for those that do, it serves as defense.
Size and Measurements
Malabari goats have specific measurements that define their breed. Bucks’ shoulder height ranges from 77 to 79 centimeters, and does at 64 centimeters. This highlights their medium stature.
Bucks have body lengths of 77 to 79 centimeters, while does measure around 68 centimeters. Chest girth for bucks is 79 to 81 centimeters and does at 73 centimeters. These figures showcase their compact and proportionate body, along with their distinctive coat color, making them visually striking.
Note: The image above showcases the distinctive appearance of a Malabari goat.
Climate Tolerance and Hardiness
Malabari goats are known for their amazing ability to handle different climates. This makes them perfect for farmers and animal keepers around the globe. They can survive in both hot and cold weather. This helps them live in many types of environments.
These goats really do well in hot weather. Their ability to deal with the heat makes them stand out. Their toughness makes them ideal for places with very high or low temperatures.
Their ability to adapt to various climates has made Malabari goats popular worldwide. They are great for farmers who deal with changing weather and climate shifts. This makes them an important resource in farming.
Behavior and Social Traits
Malabari goats are known to be friendly and outgoing. This makes them a top choice for farmers and those who own livestock. They are social creatures, preferring the company of other goats.
Adding Malabari goats to a herd is easy because of their friendly nature. They easily adapt to new places and get along with other animals. This makes them simple to manage and handle.
Malabari goats are calm and gentle, perfect for families with kids. Their easygoing nature makes them great to interact with. They are a family-friendly choice for livestock.
Having more than one Malabari goat is good for them. It helps them bond and act like a natural herd. Being in a herd makes them feel safe and happy, which is good for their mental health.
Care and Maintenance
Keeping Malabari goats healthy is key. You need to watch their health and tackle problems quickly. It’s also crucial to give them the right food for their growth.
Malabari goats eat a lot of different things. They graze on grass, leaves, and even farm leftovers. They eat 2 to 4% of their body weight every day. Make sure they always have enough food and water.
These goats need 2 to 4 liters of clean water daily. Keeping their living space clean is also a must. They need a clean area and good air flow to stay healthy.
Trimming their coat is part of their care. It keeps them clean and cool. They need enough space to graze properly. Around 6 to 10 goats per acre is usually good.
Proper care, food, and cleanliness help Malabari goats do well. This ensures they are healthy and happy.