British Goats

This guide provides an introduction to the history, folklore, and development of goatkeeping in Britain, exploring the ethical considerations of goat farming and the sixteen British goat breeds. It also offers craft and recipe ideas for those interested in learning more about these intelligent and curious animals.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 64 pages
\n Publication date: 25 July 2019
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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Goats have a rich history in Britain, with a recent resurgence in goat-related products. From their rectangular pupils to their role in Thor's chariot, there's much to learn about these fascinating creatures. This guide explores the history, folklore, and farming of goats, examining their ethical implications and potential role in humankind's future. Whether you're an aspiring smallholder, cheese enthusiast, or simply curious, this guide offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of goats.

The history of goats in Britain dates back thousands of years, with evidence of domestication in ancient times. Goats were used for their milk, cheese, and meat, and they played an important role in the economy and culture of the region. However, goat farming declined in the mid-20th century due to various factors, including the rise of mechanized agriculture and the decline in demand for goat products.

In recent years, however, there has been a resurgence in goat farming in Britain. This is due to a growing interest in sustainable and ethical food choices, as well as the unique qualities of goat milk, cheese, and meat. Goat farming is a more environmentally friendly and sustainable form of agriculture than cow and sheep farming, as goats require less space and produce less waste. They are also more resilient to climate change, as they can adapt to a wide range of conditions.

One of the most interesting aspects of goat farming is the development of sixteen British goat breeds. These breeds are unique in their characteristics and are bred for specific purposes, such as milk production, cheese making, or meat production. Each breed has its own unique flavor and texture, and they are prized by chefs and food enthusiasts alike.

In addition to their culinary uses, goats are also valued for their intelligence and curiosity. They are social animals that thrive on companionship, and they are known for their mischievous behavior. Goat farming can be a challenging and rewarding experience, as farmers must provide their goats with proper care and nutrition to ensure their health and well-being.

One of the benefits of goat farming is that it can provide a source of income for smallholders and rural communities. Goat milk, cheese, and meat are in high demand, and farmers can sell their products at local markets or online. This can help to support local economies and promote sustainable agriculture.

However, goat farming also has its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is managing disease and pests. Goats are susceptible to a wide range of diseases, including mastitis, foot rot, and pneumonia, and they can also be preyed upon by pests such as foxes and rabbits. Farmers must be vigilant in their care and management to ensure that their goats are healthy and productive.

Another challenge is finding suitable land for goat farming. Goats require a lot of space to graze and roam, and they are not suited to small or urban areas. Farmers must carefully consider the location of their farm and the availability of suitable land before starting a goat farming operation.

Despite these challenges, goat farming is growing in popularity in Britain. There are many resources available to help aspiring farmers get started, including local farmers' markets, goat associations, and online resources. With the right care and management, goat farming can be a profitable and sustainable way to produce high-quality food products while promoting sustainable agriculture.

In conclusion, goats have a rich history in Britain, with a recent resurgence in goat-related products. From their rectangular pupils to their role in Thor's chariot, there's much to learn about these fascinating creatures. Goat farming is a more environmentally friendly and sustainable form of agriculture than cow and sheep farming, and it offers unique benefits such as high-quality food products and income for smallholders and rural communities. However, it also has its challenges, such as managing disease and pests and finding suitable land. With the right care and management, goat farming can be a profitable and sustainable way to produce high-quality food products while promoting sustainable agriculture.

\n Weight: 144g\n
Dimension: 208 x 159 x 4 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781784423605\n \n