Our Blog - The Ovine and Caprine Chronicles

Insights and practical guides for modern sheep and goat farmers.

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Unlocking the Power of Minerals for Goat Health

Minerals play a critical role in goat health, providing protection against diseases, parasites, and anemia. Essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, copper, selenium, iron, and zinc support various bodily functions including immune response, reproduction, and metabolism. Different minerals serve specific purposes—calcium strengthens bones, copper supports immune function, iron prevents anemia, and selenium acts as an antioxidant. Deficiencies can lead to serious health issues including reproductive problems, weakened immunity, and poor growth. Providing balanced mineral supplementation through quality feed, free-choice mineral mixes...

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History of Boer Goats

Boer goats originated in early 1900s South Africa through crossbreeding indigenous and European goats to create a superior meat breed adaptable to harsh environments. Distinguished by their white bodies with reddish-brown heads, impressive size, and twisted horns, they're known for rapid growth rates and excellent feed conversion efficiency. The breed gained international recognition in the 1990s when export restrictions eased, quickly spreading to the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Boer goats are valued for their docile temperament, high fertility rates, excellent maternal instincts, and superior...

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Five Facts about Record Keeping

Effective record keeping provides a clear picture of a farm’s operations. By tracking metrics like breeding dates, birth weights, and growth rates, farmers can identify high-performing animals and make informed breeding decisions. For instance, records of kidding or lambing outcomes help pinpoint which ewes or does produce strong, healthy offspring, allowing farmers to refine their genetic selection. Similarly, monitoring feed consumption and weight gain ensures optimal nutrition, reducing waste and improving feed efficiency. These insights translate into healthier herds and higher yields, whether for meat, milk, or...

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