If you’re considering adding goats to your homestead or farm for the purpose of meat production, brush clearing, supplemental income or even as pets, the Kiko goat should be highly considered. Kikos are a large-breed meat goat derived originally from feral goats in New Zealand. In the wild, goats with poor parasite resistance or bad hooves did not survive, goats with poor mothering instincts or trouble with kidding did not propagate. Natural selection has strict culling standards and only the strongest, most resilient genetics survive and thrive making the Kiko generally hardier than most other breeds. These traits are still present in Kiko goats today and good breeders with strict culling and breed-selection standards are continuing to improve the breed’s legendary performace making them perfect for most homesteads.

There are two primary registries for Kiko’s; NKR (National Kiko Registry) and AKGA (American Kiko Goat Association). At H&W Pastures we primarily deal with NKR but we do have some goats that are dual registered. We do not register our commerical does which are generally only a percentage Kiko or simply came from Kiko stock that was not registered. Within these registries, Kiko goats will fall into three categories: 100% New Zealand, Purebred or Percentage. The 100% NZ means that the goat’s bloodline can be traced all the way back to New Zealand. Purebreds are, for all intents and purposes, just as good as 100% NZ’s but cannot be traced back to New Zealand. They’re a minimum of 15/16 Kiko. For this reason they tend to have a slightly lower market value. Percentage Kiko’s are mixed with other breeds and may only be, for instance, 50% or 75%. For example, a Kiko/Boer cross could be registered as a 50% Kiko. A percentage goat line can be bred up to Purebred standard (once it reaches 15/16 Kiko) but will not reach 100% NZ.

Many homesteaders are considering goats for their milk. We think this is wonderful because there are lots of health benefits with goat’s milk and we personally LOVE goat cheese. It’s clear that Kiko’s are not a dairy breed, so how do they fit in? Here is our recommendation to anyone wanting a goat for milk; goats are herd animals so if you are getting one goat you should get at least two, but preferably three or more. If you only want the dairy for your personal or family consumption then you do not need the whole herd to be dairy goats. Of course, if you plan to start a goat dairy to produce and sell goat milk or goat milk products, then you should get all dairy goats. Otherwise, a single dairy goat for milk production and the rest of the herd comprising of a more marketable meat breed, Kiko being the top choice, is your best option. Additionally, breeding your dairy goat to a faster growing Kiko buck will increase the growth rate of the offspring helping to bring more money into the homestead.

To learn more about Kiko’s or to see our herd, please contact us to schedule a tour.