There’s something about our Boer Goats…

“What kind of goat is that?” Many of our visitors ask this very question! With their white bodies and horned, brown heads, our distinctive and noble-looking goats are called Boer goats. Boer goats are a breed of meat goat originally from South Africa and were first brought to the UK in 1987.

“But the Marlborough Downs are a long way from South Africa!” They certainly are, but the stocky Boer goat is highly adaptable and able to thrive in a range of climates and environments. Though it is one of the hardiest breeds of goat – noted for its suitability for hot, dry conditions and its resistance to drought – it can also acclimatise to high humidity and low temperatures. The Boer goat can happily make its home in the mountains, dense bush, plains or pasture, and is very content here on the Marlborough Downs.

Unusually for a goat, the Boer goat can breed virtually all year round. On the farm we have two herds of breeding does, one group kidding in winter and the other in summer. A mother doe will typically have twins, and occasionally triplets. The good natured and docile Boer goat is an excellent mother, forming a strong bond with her kids. We trust that “mother knows best”, so our Boer kids are reared by their mothers, as a family unit within their herd. This security creates a sense of calm and contentment and allows our goats to express natural social behaviours. For us, this is integral to ensuring our goats’ welfare and happiness, which is at the heart of everything we do.