African Pygmy Goat

The African Pygmy Goat is a small domestic breed of goat that is alert and gregarious by nature. Pygmy goats tend to be more robust and breed more continually throughout the year than either dairy or meat goats, and despite their smaller size they produce large amounts of milk and meat. However, these goats are not raised for milk and meat, but generally kept as pets.

Pygmy goats have a full coat of hair that is straight and medium to long in length. The density of the coat varies with the seasons and with the climate where the goat is found. Adult bucks (males) have the most hair, with their long flowing beards and their thick mane that flows over their shoulders. Adult does (females) will generally have no beard or their beard will be very thin.

Where they live: Originated on the continent of Africa

Habitat: Cameroon Valley of West Africa

Size:   They are about 50 - 63 cm long and 41 to 58 cm tall at the shoulder.

Weight: They weigh around 22-27 kg.

Life span:  10-15 years

Conservation status:  Domestic. Not endangered

Fun Facts:     

• Male African pygmy goats are called "Bucks" not “Billys”
• Female African pygmy goats are called "Does" not “Nannys”
• Females have short, straight horns; compared to the males