![]() If you are considering them to obtain or maintain an ag exemption on your land, or purchasing for your kids or grandkids as a 4-H or FFA project, you’ll find they’re truly worth their weight in gold due to their versatility on the farm, in your yard or in the show ring. Ewes are attentive mothers, rarely requiring assistance when giving birth.ĭespite being relatively rare, Harlequins are affordable. They are easy lambers, often having multiples over many years. This mini is a hardy breed that requires little more than good grazing land, fresh water, shelter and predator protection. Additionally, Harlequins produce fine, medium-staple length wool highly desired by spinners and fiber artists. Harlequin SheepĪs adults, Harlequins are miniature sheep w ith ewes weighing from 80 to 120 pounds and rams weighing 90 to 150 at maturity.Īt this weight, they can be ideal for children, teens, seniors and everyone in between.īeing naturally polled (hornless), keepers don’t need to worry about serious injury. They’re perfect for the beginner, as a pet or used in 4-H projects. These dwarves are also extremely friendly, hardy and thrive in almost any climate. This gentle little goat is already renowned for its milk that’s celebrated for its high butterfat content. Bucks top height is 23 1/2 inches, averaging 23.īoth does and bucks boast soft coats with short to medium hair in a number of color combinations, including black, chocolate, Dalmatian (black-and-white spotted), and gold and white.īut it isn’t all about looks. Height in does is between 17 to 22 1/2 inches, with averages at 21 1/2. This caprine breed originated in West Africa and resembles a small version of large dairy goat breeds. They are elegant looking animals-perfect dairy goats in miniature! The American Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Association and its skilled breeders have done a truly remarkable job in producing and refining this extremely useful goat breed.Ĭourtesy Brandee Green, Brandee’s Mobile Hoof Care If you like the thought of small goat breeds but still wish to milk, then maybe take a look at the Nigerian Dwarf. Thanks to being easy-keepers, with a small size and docile temperament, the breed is often raised as a pet or used in 4-H projects, remaining active and sound for 8 to 10 years or longer.īabydoll Southdowns make excellent foragers and many employ them to keep grass trimmed and weeds down. Babydoll Southdowns sport sought-after springy fleece, with natural loft, in shades of off-white or black (fades to shades of brown and gray) that one can spin into luxurious fiber. Ewes, and the more masculine-looking rams, reach heights of 18 to 24 inches. The polled (hornless) breed originated in England and was improved upon in the late 1700s by John Ellman.Įwes make excellent mothers, often producing multiples. ![]() The North American Babydoll Southdown Sheep Association refers to the diminutive breed as “charming creatures” because of their dispositions and adorable appearance. Read more: Check out these 5 small cattle breeds ideal for hobby farms! They are known for their ease of calving and continue to calve until age 16 to 18. Bulls tip the scales at about 1,000 pounds.īoth sexes will continue to grow until 5 or 6 years of age, and their average lifespan is more than 20 years. A mature cow weighs between 600 and 700 pounds. ![]() When they are weaned at about 7 months, they weigh between 350 and 500 pounds. Not only are these cattle efficient in beef and milk production, but their small size and good temperament make Dexters nice to have around.Ĭalves weigh about 45 pounds at birth. And yet they can thrive in a variety of climates.ĭexters come in three solid colors: black (predominant), dun and red. There’s a growing interest in these small, gentle cattle because they require less feed than other breeds. Dexter cows also give more milk for their body weight than any other breed. Calves grow fast, maturing in 12 to 18 months as finished beef.
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