Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 2.13
Nubian (Dairy Goat). For color
detail, see Appendix A.
Figure 2.14
Oberhasli (Dairy Goat). For color
detail, see Appendix A.
particularly in tropical countries because of its suitability
for hot environments. This is a large, graceful dairy breed
with droopy long ears and a Roman nose. Mainly horned,
they also can be polled. It is always shorthaired. A mature
buck usually weighs at least 80 kg (175 lb), and a mature
doe usually weighs over 61 kg (135 lb). Composite breeds
with Nubians as ancestors include the Zaraibi, Sudan
Nubian, Damascus or Shami, Kilis, Mzabite, Mishri,
and Anglo-Nubian (Briggs and Briggs, 1980). The U.S.
Nubian was derived from the Anglo-Nubian breed of
England. See Figure 2.13 .
Oberhasli
This breed originated in the mountains and valleys of
Switzerland (OSU, 2004) and is a very energetic and alert
breed. It also is known as the Swiss Alpine and was part
of Alpine registry. However, in 1979 the Oberhasli breed
was established. This breed is medium in size and has
chamoisee color with black markings (stripes) on its face,
the base of the ear through the dorsal line, belly, and legs
below the knee. Oberhasli does are 71 cm (28 in.) in height
and weigh around 55 kg (120 lb). See Figure 2.14 .
Figure 2.15
Saanen (Dairy Goat). For color
detail, see Appendix A.
males weigh 80 - 91 kg (176 - 200 lb) and are 90 cm (36 in.)
at the withers. It is shorthaired and white or light cream
color. They are polled. Along with Nubian goats, this
breed has been used frequently to form composite breeds
and improve meat breeds (FAO, 2004; Glowatzki-Mullis
et al., 2008). This is one of the most widely distributed
dairy goat breeds in the world (68 countries) for upgrading
local goats to increase milk and meat production (FAO,
2004). Herdbooks have been established in many countries
including South Africa (1922), Great Britain (1922), the
U.S. (1954), and Italy (1981). See Figure 2.15.
Saanen
This most reputable dairy goat breed (queen of the dairy
goats) is native to the Saanen Valley of Switzerland. Its
herdbook was established in 1890 in Switzerland. The
breed is a heavy milk producer with average butterfat
content. This rugged and vigorous breed has a medium to
large frame with does weighing around 68 kg (150 lb) and
measuring 75 cm (30 in.) in height at the withers. The adult
