Tellicherry Goat Farming: Tips and Tricks for Beginners

Tellicherry goats are a breed of goats that are widely raised in the southern region of India. They are highly valued for their meat and milk, and their popularity has increased significantly in recent years. In this article, we will discuss Tellicherry goat farming in detail and provide comprehensive information on how to raise these goats.

Breed Characteristics:

Before delving into Tellicherry goat farming, it’s important to understand the breed characteristics of these goats. Some key features of Tellicherry goats include:

• Size: Tellicherry goats are medium-sized, with an average weight of 40-50 kg for bucks and 25-30 kg for does.
• Coat: They have a short, smooth coat that can be various shades of brown, black, or white.
• Horns: Both bucks have horns that are long and curved.
• Milk Production: Tellicherry goats are known for their high milk production, with an average yield of 2-3 litres per day.
• Meat Production: They are also highly valued for their meat, which is lean and flavorful.

Now that we’ve covered the breed characteristics, let’s move on to the details of Tellicherry goat farming.

Housing:

The first step in Tellicherry goat farming is to provide appropriate housing for the goats. A well-built and well-ventilated goat house is essential to keep the goats healthy and productive. Some key features of a good goat house include:

• Space: Each goat requires at least 10-12 square feet of space in the house.
• Ventilation: Good ventilation is important to prevent respiratory problems in goats. The house should have windows or vents that can be opened and closed as needed.
• Flooring: The floor of the goat house should be made of concrete or brick to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites.
• Feeding Troughs: Feeding troughs should be provided to ensure that the goats have access to clean and fresh food at all times.

Feeding:

The next important aspect of Tellicherry goat farming is feeding. Goats are herbivores and require a diet that is high in fiber and protein. Some key points to keep in mind when feeding Tellicherry goats include:

• Hay: Good quality hay should be provided to the goats. Alfalfa hay is a good option as it is high in protein.
• Concentrates: Concentrates such as grains, soybean meal, and corn can be provided to the goats in small quantities.
• Mineral Supplements: Mineral supplements such as salt, calcium, and phosphorus should be provided to the goats to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients.

Breeding:

Breeding is an important part of Tellicherry goat farming as it ensures a steady supply of goats for milk and meat production. Some key points to keep in mind when breeding Tellicherry goats include:

• Age: Does can be bred when they are around 8-10 months old, while bucks can be used for breeding when they are around 10-12 months old.
• Estrus Cycle: The estrus cycle of Tellicherry goats is around 21 days. It’s important to keep track of the estrus cycle to ensure that the does are bred at the right time.
• Breeding Season: The breeding season for Tellicherry goats is from August to January.
• Care During Pregnancy: Pregnant does should be provided with a clean and comfortable space to rest. They should also be provided with a balanced diet that is high in protein and fiber.

Healthcare:

Keeping Tellicherry goats healthy is essential to ensure that they are productive and profitable. Some key points to keep in mind when caring for Tellicherry goats include:

• Vaccinations: Goats should be vaccinated against common diseases such as clostridium

• Parasite Control: Goats are prone to parasites such as worms, and regular deworming is essential to keep them healthy. A veterinarian can provide guidance on the appropriate deworming schedule.
• Regular Check-Ups: Regular check-ups by a veterinarian are important to detect any health issues early and provide appropriate treatment.

Marketing:

Finally, marketing is an important aspect of Tellicherry goat farming. Some key points to keep in mind when marketing Tellicherry goats include:

• Selling Options: Tellicherry goats can be sold for meat or milk production. They can also be sold for breeding purposes.
• Market Demand: It’s important to understand the demand for Tellicherry goats in your area to ensure that there is a market for the goats you are raising.
• Pricing: Pricing should be done based on the quality of the goats, demand in the market, and production costs.

Table: Sample Daily Feed Plan for Tellicherry Goats

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Tellicherry goat farming can be a profitable venture if done correctly. Providing appropriate housing, feeding a balanced diet, breeding at the right time, providing proper healthcare, and marketing the goats effectively are all important aspects of successful Tellicherry goat farming. With proper care and attention, Tellicherry goats can be a valuable addition to any farm or homestead.