The Angora is a domesticated Turkish breed of goat that is raised for fiber. Angoras are the only animal that produces mohair. Mohair is different form Angora wool, which comes from Angora rabbits. Mohair fibers are mostly keratin which is the same substance found in human fingernails. Each adult produces about 12 inches of mohair annually. Angoras are sheared twice yearly for their fiber, usually at the end of March and start of September.

The Boer goat originated in South Africa as a meat goat breed. Boers commonly have white bodies and distinctive red heads with long floppy ears. Boer goats are noted for being calm, gentle, fast-growing, and have high fertility rates with twins and even triplets being the norm. The does are known to be good mothers and the kids are raised for cuts of meat similar to beef cuts.

The mytonic goat or Tennessee Fainting goat is an American breed of goat used for meat and milk. It originated in Tennessee where rock walls were used for fences and these goats aren’t as good at jumping and climbing as most goats. The fainting goat was used in flocks of sheep where there were prey animals such as bear, coyote and wolves. When an animal such as a coyote came rushing into a flock of sheep, the fainting goat fainted and the sheep flock was safe because the coyote took the easy prey.

Pygmy goat is a miniature breed with a stocky build and dark color patterns originating from Africa. This goats are friendly little fellows and enjoy playing. These goats are 22-23 inches high. In the US these goats are typically kept as pets but in Africa they are primarily used for meat, with the additional benefit of providing milk. Pygmy goats are a hardy, tough, and resilient breed.