BREEDING BASICS

The traditional goat breeding season in the U.S. is between late August and the early part of January, according to Angela McKenzie-Jakes, extension animal science specialist at Florida A&M University.

- SUE WEAVER

During this time of year, buck goats are getting smelly, and their does are looking hopeful. But it takes planning to produce a bountiful crop of bouncing baby goats. Here are some things to consider.

LOOK TO NUTRITION

Goat breeding stock should be neither fat nor thin. While quality forage and freechoice minerals are sufficient for goats on maintenance rations, they need more energy in their diets as rut approaches. Many folks "flush" does by switching to legume hay and introducing 1/2 to 1 pound of 12% protein grain mix three or four weeks before breeding season begins; this helps boost ovulation rates and results in more kids. Meanwhile, bucks often forget to eat during rut, so they need to be plump but not grossly overweight as breeding begins.

ADD SELEMIUM, AS NEEDED

Insufficient selenium in goats' diets is associated with low conception rates, retained placentas and weak kids. It also has a positive effect on male fertility. If you live in a selenium-deficient part of the country, such as portions of the Northeast, the selenium in goat-specific minerals is inadequate.