Irish Goat: Characteristics, Facts & Breed Information
The Irish goat is a medium-sized breed of goat, that can be found in Ireland, where they are usually used for milk and for meat. But these goats are said to be not originated in Ireland, rather they originated in Northwest of European Islands because these goats are somewhat related to the goat breeds of England, Scotland, and Wales. Keep reading to learn more about them.
Origin
The Irish goat originated in Ireland, where they are usually used for their milk and for their meat.
Irish Goat Characteristics
- They are medium-sized goats.
- They are beautiful long-haired goats.
- They have a thick cashmere undercoat under their long outer coat, which helps their body keep warm in cold weather.
- They have a wide variety of colors, but their usual colors are the combination of black, white, and gray.
- Their faces are dished.
- Their bodies are small and deep.
- They have beards.
- They have no wattles.
- They have horns.
- Their legs are short and strong.
- Their hardiness is good.
- The average height of their adult bucks is around 35 inches, while for their adult does, they are around 30 inches.
- The average weight of their adult bucks is around 110-165 pounds, while for their adult does, they are around 77-132 pounds.
- They can adapt to different types of climates and environments.
- Their temperament is usually calm and friendly.
Facts
- They originated in Ireland.
- They were the only goat breed in Ireland at the time of 1900s.
- They are closely related to the native goats of England, Scotland, and Wales.
- They are considered to be endangered goat breeds.
- It is possible to tell their age by counting their horn rings.
- Their lifespan is 8-12 years.
- Their gestation period is 150 days.
- Their milk production per day is 3-4 liters of milk.
- Their milk fat content is 3-5%.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- They are easy to handle.
- They are good for milk and for meat production.
- Their hardiness is good.
- They can adapt to different types of climates and environments.
Cons
- They are good escape artists.
- They have a low population.
Uses
The Irish goat is a dual-purpose goat breed. They can be used for their milk and for their meat.
Breed Profile Information
| Breed Name | Irish Goat |
| Other Name | None |
| Breed Purpose | Milk and Meat Production |
| Uses | Milk, Meat, and Skin |
| Size | Medium |
| Height | Adult Bucks 35 inches, Adult Does 30 inches |
| Weight | Adult Bucks 110-165 pounds, Adult Does 77-132 pounds |
| Horns | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates, But Prefer Cold Climate |
| Colors | Many Colors, But Their Most Common Colors Are The Combination of Black, White, and Gray |
| Life Expectancy | 8-12 years |
| Temperament | Calm and Friendly |
| Good for Stall Fed | Not Sure |
| Milk Production Per Day | 3-4 liters/day |
| Milk Fat Content | 3-5% |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Country/Place of Origin | Ireland |
Final Thoughts
The Irish goat is a breed of goat, that can be found in Ireland that are good for milk and for meat, but these goats now a day are endangered, with a number below 350 goats. That’s why there is a goat association called Old Irish Goat Society, who wants to preserve these goats and to increase their population.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the Irish goats used for? The Irish goats are mainly used for milk and for meat production because this is where they are good at with.
Where did the Irish goat originate? They originate in the country of Ireland, this is where they originated.
