Small ruminants are gaining in popularity with commercial producers and hobbyists. Goats are favorites for 4-H projects, as well. Nubian goat milk is especially suited to cheese production. Nubians are also considered a good meat goat. Tamsin Cooper shares the history and profiles today’s Nubian dual-purpose goats.
Source: Backyard Goats, April 4, 2020. Link. Most Nubians possess genes for high production of alpha s1-casein, an important protein in cheesemaking, and a huge goat milk benefit. Nubian production of this protein is high compared to European dairy breeds. Although yield is lower than for most dairy breeds, the high levels of milk solids impart a rich flavor and improve coagulation, making it an ideal constituent for making goats’ cheese.
INSIGHTS: Space requirements and stocking rates are missing in Cooper’s article. It’s likely this reflects a common answer of “it depends” when considering how many goats per acre. One reference for backyard pets suggested a minimum of 1,000 square feet for two goats, a minimum quantity required for goat health. Some producers reported grazing densities of two to three head per acre on good native pastures and one to two head per acre of brushy fields.