Nyenye

FRENCH-ALPINE GOAT

Characteristic:

* also referred to as the Alpine Dairy goat

* a breed of goat that originated in Alps.

* The goats of Alpine breed that were brought to the United States from France where they had been selected for much greater uniformity, size, and production than was true of the goats that were taken from Switzerland to France.

* No distinct color has been established, and it may range from pure white through shades of fawn, gray, brown, black, red, bluff, piebald, or various shadings or combinations of these colors.

* Both sexes are generally short haired, but bucks usually have a roach of long hair along the spine.

* The ears should be of medium size, fine textured, and preferably erect.

* French-Alpine females are excellent milkers and usually have large, well-shaped udders with well-placed teats of desirable shape.

Difference from parents:

Mature Alpine does should be at least 30” tall at the withers and should weigh at least 135 pounds. Mature Alpine bucks should be at least 32” tall at the withers and should weigh at least 160 pounds. Some milk genes of the parents may inherit of the offspring, most are the best ones but some may inherit the worst. The production of milk by the offspring may differ whenever this kind of breed will be crossbred with another one.

Purpose/Importance:

Alpines are adaptable animals that thrive in any climate while maintaining good health and excellent production. They are known for being exceptionally independent and strong willed. They are also known for their long lactation, producing large quantities of high quality of milk. Their milk has a good protein and butterfat content, lending itself well to cheese production.

How was developed:

Alpines first appeared in the U.S. in 1992, when Dr. Charles de Langle and others developed the first documented herd, consisting of 19 does and 3 bucks, from France. One of these adaptable and well-traveled animals apparently lived...