Craigslist is not just a platform for buying and selling outdated furniture and antique collectibles. It’s a fantastic place to buy and sell goats too! In fact, Boer goats are the most popular breed among goat farmers in the US, and Craigslist is teeming with listings for these robust, domesticated goats.
If you’re on the hunt for a new addition to your goat herd or even if you’re just looking to start your goat farming business, then Craigslist is the place to be! In this article, we’ll give you the low-down on the Boer goat breed, the benefits of goat farming, and how to find and buy the perfect Boer goat for you.
The Boer Goat Breed: Robust, Hardy, and Delicious
Boer goats are a native breed of South Africa and have been popular in the US since the 1990s. They are bred for their meat, which is leaner and more flavorful than traditional goat meat. Boer goats are a hardy and durable breed, able to survive in a variety of climates and environments. They are also resistant to most common goat diseases, making them less susceptible to illness than most other breeds.
If you’re looking for a robust and healthy goat breed to add to your farm, then the Boer goat is definitely the way to go! And with so many Boer goats for sale on Craigslist, it’s never been easier to start your own goat farming business.
The Benefits of Goat Farming: Why You Should Get Your Goat On
Goat farming is an increasingly popular business venture for many reasons. Not only are goats relatively easy to care for and maintain, but they also provide a wide range of benefits to those who choose to farm them.
For one, goats are known for their milk, which is high in nutritional value and makes for some delicious dairy products. Goat cheese, in particular, is a hot commodity right now, and it’s easy to see why. It has a smooth and creamy texture that’s perfect for everything from salad dressings to baked goods.
In addition to their milk, goats can also be raised for their meat, fiber, and even their manure. Goat meat is leaner and more flavorful than most other types of meat and is especially popular in many traditional cuisines. Goat fiber is also highly sought after in the fashion industry and is used to make everything from sweaters to scarves. And goat manure is a fantastic natural fertilizer that can be used to nourish crops and gardens.
Finding Your Perfect Boer Goat: Tips and Tricks
Now that you know the benefits of goat farming and the robust qualities of the Boer goat breed, it’s time to find the perfect goat for you. And, again, Craigslist is the perfect place to start your search.
When looking for a Boer goat on Craigslist, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
1. Know What You Want
Before you start searching for Boer goats on Craigslist, you should have a clear idea of what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a breeding pair or just a single goat? Do you want a goat with specific characteristics, such as a particular coat color or pattern? Knowing what you want before you start your search will help you narrow down your options and find the goat that’s perfect for you.
2. Check the Listings Often
Boer goats are in high demand, and listings on Craigslist can move quickly. That’s why it’s important to check the listings often and act fast when you find a goat that you’re interested in.
3. Ask for Photos and Information
When you find a potential Boer goat on Craigslist, be sure to ask the seller for photos and information about the goat. It’s essential to know as much about the goat’s history and care as possible before you commit to buying it.
4. Arrange a Visit
Plan to visit the goat and its current living conditions before finalizing any purchase. A visit will give you a better idea of the goat’s temperament, dietary needs, and overall health.
5. Have Transportation Ready
If you’re buying a goat from someone on Craigslist, you’ll need to have transportation ready to bring the goat home. Be sure to arrange for transportation before you finalize the purchase, so you’re not scrambling to find a way to transport a live animal at the last minute.
Goat-Getters: Goat Farmers Who Reached New Heights
Goat farming has been a popular business venture for centuries, and many goat farmers have made a name for themselves by becoming leaders in the industry. Some of the world’s most notable goat farmers include:
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Jonathan Fanning of Kansas was the first person to import Boer goats into the US in the 1990s, kick-starting the Boer goat farming industry in America.
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Maynard James Keenan of Arizona, known for his work as the lead singer of the band Tool, is also a prolific goat farmer. Keenan owns a vineyard and wine label, both of which feature his Boer goats prominently in their marketing materials.
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Margaret Raber of California is a successful goat farmer who has been awarded numerous prizes for her Boer goats. Raber’s goats have won the title of Grand Champion at the National Western Stock Show and the California State Fair.
A Table for Boer Goat Novices: Common Boer Goat Terminology
If you’re new to goat farming or buying Boer goats on Craigslist, you may encounter some unfamiliar terminology. Here’s a table of some common Boer goat terms and what they mean:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Buck | Male goat |
| Doe | Female goat |
| Kid | Baby goat |
| Wether | Castrated male goat |
| Boer | A breed of goat from South Africa |
| Show Quality | A goat that meets certain standards and characteristics suitable for competitive showing |
| Commercial Quality | A goat that has the desired characteristics and traits for breeding and meat production and is not intended for showing |
The Boer Goat: A Growing Industry
The Boer goat farming industry is growing every day, with more people than ever before choosing to raise Boer goats for their meat, dairy, and fiber. With Craigslist offering a convenient way to buy and sell these adorable animals, it’s never been easier to get your goat on and join in on this growing industry.
So what are you waiting for? Head over to Craigslist and start browsing the listings for Boer goats today. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite farm animal!
References:
- American Boer Goat Association. (2021) “Why Boer Goats?”. http://abga.org
- Brun, T. A., & Torvund, T. (2020). “Dairy Goat Breeds and Selection.” Oregon State University Extension Service
- USDA ERS. (2016) “Livestock and Meat Domestic Data.” https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/DataFiles/Livestock_and_Meat_Domestic_Data/LivestockMeatDomesticData.xls?v=927.4