Should you raise sheep or goats? It’s a big question for a small livestock owner. Sheep and goats, despite being close to the same size, are very different in how they interact with people. Let’s look into which one (or both!) will suit you and your farm better. While sheep and goats are both small…
Thinking of getting into raising your own piglets, but not sure of where to start? Let me help you with the basics. Breeding age pigs are called boar (male), sow (female that has given birth) and gilt (female that has not given birth). Farrowing (birth) happens 114 days after breeding. Raising your own piglets is…
When I think of cattle rustling, I picture an episode of Bonanza or a John Wayne movie. What about modern times? Does cattle rustling still happen today? Cattle rustling is when people take and sell cattle they do not own. Cattle rustling is an old practice that still continues today. Mention cattle rustling and this…
Organic beef is riding a wave of popularity. Good news, right? Maybe, maybe not. What exactly is organic beef and how are these cattle raised? Organic beef is beef from cattle that have been raised according to the USDA organic standards. Anytime a food, organic or otherwise, gets popular there have been large marketing campaigns…
Raising a small flock of sheep is becoming more common in the U.S. But there seems to be a lag in serving lamb at dinner. Why is lamb not more popular? What is going on here? Lamb is not popular with American consumers because it is harder to find a variety of cuts, most people…
Wondering about raising meat goats as a small farm business? We are, too! We have one Boer nanny (and her kids) and are seriously considering adding to the “herd”. What about the economics of meat goats? Are they a profitable small farm business? Meat goats are a profitable farm business as long as the goats…
Goat meat is becoming more popular in the U.S., especially with many people wanting to choose a healthier meat. With goats being so versatile (eating a variety of plants and can live nearly anywhere), why is the price of the meat high? The price of goat meat is higher than most other meats because goats…
Need to purchase Cost High quality breeding does $300-400 each High quality meat buck $500-600 Hay (no grain) dewormer, mineral $77 per adult goat These prices are for commercial meat goats, if you are getting a specific breed or show stock, prices will be higher. Thinking of getting a starter herd of meat goats? We…
I love to see cattle, or any other animal, grazing out in the pasture! Cattle get on beautifully with just grass. The question is how do you make it happen so both you and the cattle are happy with the results? Cattle can eat grass to get all of their nutrient requirements for maintenance and…
Considering raising a few ducks? You’ll be glad you did, home raised ducks are fast, easy and fun! Now to the specifics: How long will your ducklings take to reach finishing weight? Ducks, especially Pekins, are fast growers that will be ready to eat at 7-8 weeks of age. All other duck breeds will take…