GOATS

A pygmy goat (Capra hicus) is a small species of goat; females weigh about 23 to 34 kg (35 to 50 lbs) and males
about 27 to 39 kg (40 to 60 lbs). Pygmy goats originated in the Camaroon Valley of western Africa. They were
imported into the United States from European zoos in the 1950s for use in zoos and as a research animal. They
were eventually acquired by private breeders and quickly gained popularity as pets and exhibition animals due to
their good-natured personalities, friendliness and hardy constitution.

Although they produce a large amount of milk for their size, and can be eaten, pygmy goats are not typically used
for milk or meat, unlike larger dairy and meat goat breeds. Pygmy goats tend to be more robust and breed more
continually throughout the year than either dairy or meat goats. They have stomachs with four compartments: the
rumen, the reticulum, the omasum, and the abomasum. As browsers, goats are similar to deer and enjoy variety
in their diet, including woody plants.