In response to the blog post on goat breeds I received a comment questioning the worth of goats.  That is a fair question, after all they aren't the most popular homestead animal.  They look like a cross between Satan and a deer and they have a reputation for eating tin cans and escaping any pen (most of which is unfounded (I think!)).

Benefits of goats

*Meat.  Goat meat is called Chevon, Caprito is meat from younger goats.  I talk a little about the stigma with eating meat and why the year 1066 has disconnected us from the animals we eat.

*Milk/Cheese.  Goat's milk is closer to human milk than cow's milk.  Its a ton healthier as well.  And if you've ever eaten Feta (and I theorize any cheese!) you'd better thank a goat.

*Clearing Land.  Goats eat stuff that other animals won't and can't touch including poison ivy, wild rose and blackberries (if you consider them a weed!).

*Low Impact.  Require little feed.  Don't compact land like cows do.

*Economic.  Regardless of how you feel about goats, other people will readily buy them from you!

Awesome article on raising goats here!