Lamancha goat is a breed that has its origin in Canada and is recognized only in America. There are 2 versions of the origin of this breed. The first time that the short-eared goat species was observed was made at the Paris World Fair, at the beginning of 1900. They called them Lamancha from Cordoba Spain. Another version tells that when the Spanish missionaries were colonizing California, they brought with them a breed of goats.
This breed was short-eared, suitable for the production of milk or meat and is the forerunner of this breed. In any case, the race is not denied its Spanish blood. This breed was made improvements in the 1930s in Oregon by Eula F. Frey.
Frey crossed some short-ears goats believed to have Spanish blood on them with their exceptional Nubian swiss and bucks. And it was accepted as a breed for registration on January 27, 1958.
Characteristics of Lamancha Goat
Lamancha goat is a medium-size breed. The head of this breed is small and thin. While the ears are distinguished by their small ears that are easily transmitted to their offspring. For its part, the skin can be any color from white to black. The size of this species varies, the females reach 65 to 70 cm, while the males measure 70 to 75 cm.
In addition, the adult female weight is 55 Kg and at birth, they weigh 3.1 Kg. While the adult males weigh around 70 Kg and at weaning they weigh 8.7 Kg. Also, the females of this species have a duration of lactation of 305 days. And the percentage of fat in the milk of this species reaches 3.8%.
The daily milk production of this species becomes 2.2 liters. That is why the annual milk production is between 600 and 700 liters. It has an excellent dairy ability and is a versatile and resistant animal that can withstand a lot of difficulties.
Also, the LaMancha breed is straight-faced, with its ears being the most distinctive feature of the breed. There are two types of ears in the LaMancha breed. In itself, one type of ear has no advantage over the other. You may also like to read Boer Goat
One of the ears is squirrel type measuring approximately 2.54 centimeters maximum. Or there may be the very little ear, with little or no cartilage. Elf-type ears The maximum length is 5.08 centimeters, the cartilage that forms the small ear is allowed. The end of the ear should be turned up or down.
In itself, one type of ear has no physiological advantage over the other, except aesthetics. For the rest of his description, they have a broad and elongated body. The extremities of this species are short, thin and powerful. The breasts are voluminous and globose with uniform, medium-size nipples.
Any color or combination of colors is acceptable without preferences. Also, the hair is short, thin and shiny. The exploitation system that can be used with this breed can be stable or intensive. You may also like to read Angora Goat.
Food
Goats are ruminant animals, which feed mainly on grasses or forages and grains. Also, its diet is supplement with vitamin and mineral supplements. Goats can start feeding on solid food after 15 days or continue to drink milk until 50 days of age. This depends on the type of management carried out on each farm.
When they reach adulthood, their diet consists of grasses and concentrates. Which are provided directly in the feeders of their pens, when they are in a stable system. It is important that they have feeders and drinkers, as well as mineral salt deposits or salting.
When the goats are in an extensive or grazing system, they look for the bushes and low branches of the trees to feed themselves. You may also like to read Pygmy Goat.
Usage
Lamancha goat has been characterizing as a Creole goat with high milk production. Its milk is used for the preparation of fine cheeses and dairy products that are part of the cultural heritage of this Iberian people. The goat cheese Lamancha that like the serrano ham. That is why farmers seek to breed this breed, in addition to giving milk of excellent quality, they are very resistant. Features that make them attractive.
Special Feature
Lamancha goat has an excellent temperament in dairy and is a robust versatile animal that can withstand adverse conditions. Also, they are very cooperative animals of calm temperament.
And physiologically very resistant to diseases and difficult environments yet and continue to produce your quality milk with high butterfat content. It is used in stable or intensive farming systems in temperate climates: as an advantage, it is known that they can be milked for two years without being refreshed.
FAQ
Why do LaManchas not have ears?
LaManchas are a breed of dairy goat that is known for their lack of external ears. This trait is the result of a genetic mutation that occurred in the early 20th century. The mutation caused the goats to be born without external ears, though they still have fully functioning inner ears.
What are LaMancha goats used for?
LaMancha goats are a dairy goat breed that is well-known for their high milk production. They are one of the most popular breeds of dairy goats in the United States, and they are prized for their ability to produce a large amount of milk with relatively low maintenance. LaMancha goats have been bred to have a strong and sturdy frame, making them ideal for providing milk for human consumption.
Are LaMancha goats friendly?
Yes, LaMancha goats are generally quite friendly. They are an affectionate breed of goat that enjoys human companionship and can be very social animals. They are also known for their calm temperaments and curiosity, making them a great pet for those looking for an easy-going animal companion.
Conclusion
The American Lamancha, or more commonly simply LaMancha, is a breed of dairy goat that was formally recognized in the 1960s. This means it’s been around for quite some time! In fact, Mrs. Eula Fay Frey bred these goats in California about 1927 and then moved them to Oregon for further development. Lamanchas are members of the Capra genus like all domestic goats but they have a unique coat pattern that sets them apart from other breeds. Good Luck!
As a reference: Wikipedia.
