Live Saanen goats in the UK are renowned for their exceptional milk production, typically yielding around 2545 pounds of milk per year. Although their milk has a lower butterfat content, generally around 3.5%, Saanen goats are highly valued in dairy farming for their consistent and high-volume output.
Physical Characteristics of Live Saanen Goats
In the UK, Saanen goats are predominantly all white, although some may have permissible but undesirable spots for show purposes. Colored Saanens are classified as Sables, now recognized as a distinct breed. Saanens have short, white hair with skin that is either tan or white. Their physical features include erect ears and either straight or dished faces, making them easily identifiable.
Temperament and Suitability
Known for their calm and gentle demeanor, Live Saanen goats are an excellent choice for children and beginners in goat farming. Often described as hardy, sweet, and docile, UK Saanens are particularly noted for their placid nature. Standing over 30 inches tall and weighing considerably, they are often referred to as the gentle giants of the goat world.
Lifestyle and Reproduction
Saanen goats typically live for about 10 years, reaching sexual maturity between 3 to 12 months. The breeding season occurs in the fall, with a doe’s cycle lasting 17 to 23 days and estrus lasting 12 to 48 hours. Gestation ranges from 148 to 156 days, usually resulting in twins or triplets. Bucks use a behavior known as “flehmen” to detect if a doe is in estrus, characterized by extending their necks, raising their heads, and curling their upper lips.
Detailed Characteristics
- Color: Mostly white, occasionally biscuit-colored with black spots on the nose, ears, and udder.
- Ears: Straight to upward-facing.
- Horns: Generally absent.
- Legs: Short.
- Udder: Large.
- Neck: Long.
- Hair: Short and covers the entire body.
- Milk Production: Highest among dairy goat breeds, averaging about 3.8 liters per day.
- Fat Content: Milk contains approximately 3.5% fat, ideal for various dairy products.
- Adaptability: Saanens can thrive in various climates but prefer shade over direct sunlight.
- Weight: Adult males weigh 70-90 kg; adult females weigh 60-70 kg.
Price Of Pregnant Saanen Goats
Finding the right supplier to buy saanen goats requires a lot of patience because if not you might make wrong choices, the price of saanen goats depends on the weight which will cost from $200 to $500 per head.
Care and Management of Saanen Goats
Raising Saanen goats is relatively straightforward, requiring no special care, making them suitable for households with other animals. Even children can manage them with ease. However, adhering to certain care practices can enhance their health and productivity:
- Nutrition: Provide fresh, high-quality food with balanced nutrition.
- Milking: Perform the milking process twice a day.
- Housing: Construct a fenced area to keep the goats contained and ensure their house has ample fresh air and light.
- Hygiene: Regularly clean the housing and equipment, keeping the environment dry.
- Separation: Keep male goats separate from females.
- Special Care: Pay extra attention to pregnant goats, breeding bucks, and kids.
- Hydration: Ensure a constant supply of fresh, clean water.
- Veterinary Care: Seek veterinary assistance promptly when needed.
By following these guidelines, live Saanen goats can lead healthy, productive lives, making them a valuable addition to any farm or household interested in dairy goat farming.
We also have healthy boer goats and shami goats available
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