In the last dozen years we have been raising goats, I can honestly say I have never seen demand as high as it is right now! I can't say for certain what is driving the demand, but I have a few assumptions.
Market Prices
With prices of $3-4 dollars per pound on the hoof for 50-60 pound goats, producers are making more money than ever before. While kikos are known for their minimal inputs and being excellent mothers, they put more live kids on the trailer at sale time, costing less to raise their kids all while clearing land for the producers. It is a win win win situation.
Diversity
Many cattle farmers have been making some changes to their production by adding goats to their pasture rotations. Their mix of dietary preferences and grazing behaviors make for greater plant utilization. Goats are browsers, cattle are grazers. Goats are used for weed and brush control. Cattle follow behind the goats and help control any parasites the goats leave behind without harm to the cattle. The goats can be added to the cattle farms without reduction of the total head of cattle in production.
A trend towards self-sufficient living
With the concerns over supply chain issues and the health issues from COVID-19, people are looking for ways to become a little more self reliant. Kiko goats are a good fit for the homestead. Does can produce milk for the family farm and for her kids, while also providing meat for the freezer. Goats are smaller and easier for new farmers to deal with than a 1,000 pound cow. They are a perfect fit for the small acreage farming family.
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