The Angora goat is a valuable fiber-producing breed, originating from Turkey (Ankara region).
As a well-established fiber breed, the Angora has earned its place in fiber farming operations worldwide. Known for premium mohair fiber production (8-16 lbs/year) and lustrous, curly fleece, these goats offer valuable fiber production.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Angora goats, from their historical background and physical characteristics to practical management advice, production expectations, and economic considerations for both commercial operations and family farms.
History and Origin of Angora Goats
The Angora goat has a rich history originating from Turkey (Ankara region), where the breed was carefully developed over many generations to excel in fiber production. The unique environmental conditions and selective breeding practices in Turkey (Ankara region) shaped this breed's distinctive characteristics.
Throughout their history, Angora goats have been systematically selected for premium mohair fiber production (8-16 lbs/year), lustrous, curly fleece, docile and gentle temperament. Early breeders recognized the importance of these characteristics and made breeding decisions that reinforced these qualities generation after generation.
Today, Angora goats are found in farms and homesteads around the world, carrying forward the genetic legacy of those early breeding programs. Modern Angora goats maintain the core characteristics that made the breed valuable historically while benefiting from continued selection for improved production, health, and adaptability.
Physical Characteristics and Appearance
Size and Build
Adult Angora does typically stand 18-22 inches at withers and weigh between 60-80 pounds, while bucks are notably larger at 80-100 pounds. This size makes them moderately sized, fitting well in most farm setups.
Distinctive Features
Angora goats are particularly noted for their distinctive appearance. Key identifying features include:
- Premium mohair fiber production (8-16 lbs/year)
- Lustrous, curly fleece
- Docile and gentle temperament
- Long-lived (10-12 years)
- Sheared twice yearly
- Excellent fiber quality (23-38 microns)
Temperament
Angora goats are known for their docile, gentle, easy to handle temperament. This makes them excellent choices for first-time goat owners, families with children, and educational programs.
Fiber Production Capabilities
Fiber Production
Angora goats produce premium Mohair fiber, yielding approximately 8-16 pounds per year annually. The fiber measures 23-38 microns, making it valuable for textile production and commanding premium prices in the fiber market.
Care and Management Requirements
Housing and Shelter
Clean, dry shelter essential. Protection from rain and wind required. Minimum 20 square feet per goat. Proper goat housing should provide protection from wind, rain, and extreme temperatures while ensuring adequate ventilation.
Feeding and Nutrition
Quality hay, browse, and supplemental grain during fiber growth. High protein diet important. A well-balanced feeding program is essential for maintaining health and optimal production.
Health Management
Regular shearing twice yearly. Monitor for parasites. Keep fleece clean and dry. Implementing a preventive health management program helps ensure long-term productivity and welfare.
Climate Considerations
Angora goats are adaptable, prefers dry climate, needs shelter from wet weather. Understanding your local climate and how it affects your goats helps ensure their comfort and productivity year-round.
Breeding and Reproduction
Angora goats have reliable reproductive characteristics. Spring kidding preferred, with singles or twins common. Does should reach breeding age at approximately 12-18 months, while bucks mature slightly later.
Successful goat breeding programs require proper buck management, accurate heat detection, and good kidding management. Angora does are generally capable mothers when properly managed.
