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Small Ruminants
The Small Ruminant Program was initiated in 1992 as a meat goat research program in response to producer needs for information on goat breeds and management practices to successfully access the expanding ethnic goat market. The program expanded in 1998 to include hair sheep as a low-input alternative species that targets similar ethnic markets. A small herd of alpacas was added in 2007 to evaluate optimum management practices for fiber production. The overall objective of the program is to develop sustainable, forage-based small ruminant production systems for alternative and niche markets. 
The program currently maintains a herd of several meat goat and hair sheep breeds, extensive animal handling and housing facilities, and a state-of-the-art laboratory on the University’s Randolph Farm. Past research determined how breed type and management affect growth and carcass composition, established strategies for accelerated mating, and identified species and breed differences in parasite resistance/resilience. Current research evaluates small ruminant energetics, assisted reproductive technologies, non-conventional feeds, and strategic supplementation. Research is conducted in cooperation with a number of Land-grant Universities and USDA partners. Contacts: Stephan Wildeus, Adnan Yousuf, Michelle Corley |
