We all know that milk production is not the only things that goats can do. In fact, meat goat breeds are becoming increasingly popular as a sustainable and ethical source of protein. With that in mind, here are some of the best meat goat breeds for the homestead.
Savanna
The Savanna is a hardy, medium-sized breed of meat goat that is well adapted to both hot and cold climates. They are generally docile and easy to manage, making them ideal for the homesteader. Additionally, they have good mothering ability and can produce prolifically throughout the year which means they can be a reliable source of meat. They have a good feed conversion ratio and can be finished on grass or browse, making them very efficient in terms of cost. In addition to their meat production capabilities, Savanna goats are also popular for their hides which are used for leather, as well as for their horns which can provide an interesting and unique decoration. All things considered, the Savanna is an excellent breed for small-scale meat production.
Boer
The Boer is a large, rugged breed of goat that is well-known for its high levels of meat production. They are easily identifiable by their white bodies and red heads, though there are also some black varieties available. Boers have excellent mothering abilities and can produce multiple kids per litter. In addition, they grow fast and have a good feed conversion rate, making them a cost-effective choice for small-scale homesteaders. Boer goats are also known for their friendly temperament, making them easy to handle and work within the field or on the farm. All things considered, the Boer is an excellent breed for those looking for large amounts of high-quality meat.
Kiko
The Kiko is a hardy, medium-sized breed of meat goat that is well adapted to both hot and cold climates. They are known for their rapid growth rate and excellent feed conversion ratio, making them an ideal choice for the homesteader who is looking for maximum meat production with minimal input costs. They are also known for their hardiness and resistance to disease, meaning they can thrive on minimal inputs. In addition, Kikos are easy to handle and have a generally docile nature. All things considered, the Kiko is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality and efficient source of meat on their homestead.
If you're looking for a good meat goat to add to your homestead, you can't go wrong with Savanna, Boer, or Kiko. They are all hardy breeds that will provide you with plenty of delicious meat. Decide which one is right for you and your homestead. You won't be disappointed with any of these top meat goat breeds.
Cover image: By Lazarus000 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70407085