If you're new to the world of goats, understanding the age and gender-based terminology can be a bit confusing. This guide will break down the different terms used to describe goats, including key terms like "kid goat" for young goats, "nanny goat" or "doe goat" for adult females, "buck goat" for adult males, and "wether goat" for castrated males. Whether you're a beginner goat owner or simply curious about these fascinating animals, this guide will help you navigate the goat world with confidence.
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Why It's Important To Know Goat Terminology
If you own goats, or you are considering adding some to your farm, knowing the proper terminology is important. These terms will not only identify the gender of the goat, but also the age and in the case of males, if they can breed.
Knowing the difference between terms like "doe" (female goat) and "buck" (male goat), or understanding what a "wether" (a castrated male goat) is, can help you make informed choices based on your specific needs, whether it's for breeding, milk production, or companionship.
Similarly, understanding age-related terms like "kid" (a young goat) versus "yearling" (a goat between one and two years old) allows you to gauge the animal’s developmental stage, future potential, and care requirements. Misunderstanding these terms could lead to unexpected challenges, such as acquiring an animal that's not suitable for your intended purpose or one that requires more care and attention than anticipated. Therefore, familiarizing yourself with this terminology is an essential step in ensuring that you select the right animals for your farm, home, or business.
What Do You Call a Group of Goats?
Goats that live together in a group are called a herd or a "trip" or less commonly a "flock."
The term "herd" is the more widely used term, similar to other livestock animals, while "trip" is a less common but still recognized term. Both refer to a gathering of goats, whether in the wild, on a farm, or in a domestic setting.
If you are not looking to breed your goats, there are still benefits associated with having wether in your herd.
What is a Kid Goat?
Baby goats regardless of gender are called “kids” until they reach 6 months of age.
Kid goats are usually weaned from their mothers at around 8 to 12 weeks old, after which they begin to eat solid food. The term is analogous to how we use "calf" for young cattle or "lamb" for young sheep. Kid goats are known for their playful and energetic behavior as they grow and develop.
Kids are particularly susceptible to diseases like coccidiosis due to their developing immune systems, learn how to protect your herd on our comprehensive coccidiosis management page.
What is a Doeling Goat?
A doeling goat is a young female goat, typically under one year of age, that has not yet given birth. The term "doeling" specifically refers to female kids, distinguishing them from male kids, which are called "bucklings." Doelings are in the early stages of development and will eventually mature into adult female goats, known as "does" or "nanny goats."
To determine if a goat is a doeling, you'll want to look at a few key characteristics. You can identify the gender by observing the goat's genital area; female goats have a vulva beneath the tail, while male goats have a scrotum and penis. Doelings are usually smaller and less developed than adult female goats, known as does, and may still have baby teeth. Additionally, their behavior tends to be more playful and youthful, characteristic of young goats. If you're unsure, asking the breeder or previous owner about the goat’s history can provide confirmation.
What is a Buckling Goat?
A buckling goat is a young male goat, typically under one year of age. The term "buckling" is used to distinguish young male goats from adult males, which are referred to as "bucks" or "billies."
Bucklings are in the early stages of development and have not yet reached sexual maturity. As they grow, they will develop the physical characteristics typical of adult male goats, such as larger horns (in horned breeds) and a more muscular build. Bucklings are often more energetic and playful, reflecting their youthful age.
Note that in the event your buckling has been castrated, he will be known as a wether instead.
When we purchased our first goats, it was important to use that they were young and able to breed. We wanted time to get our farm set-up and getting young male goats has given us the flexibility to do that.
What is a Yearling Goat?
Yearling refers to male and female goats alike between 1 and 2 years of age. At this stage, yearlings are transitioning from their juvenile phase to maturity. They are typically more developed than kids but still have some of the youthful characteristics.
Yearlings can begin to exhibit the physical traits and behaviors of adult goats, and for female yearlings, it’s often the time when they might be bred if they have reached the appropriate maturity and size.
What is a Doe Goat?
Doe’s are female goats that are more than 1 year old. This distinguishes them from the juvenile doeling and indicates maturity.
A doe goat is an adult female goat. The term "doe" is used to distinguish mature females from young female goats, which are called "doelings."
Female goats, or does, typically live between 10 to 15 years. Their lifespan can be influenced by factors such as breed, overall health, and care practices.
Does are typically kept for their milk, meat, or fiber, depending on the breed. They are characterized by their more developed size and reproductive capabilities compared to younger goats. A doe has usually reached sexual maturity and may have given birth to kids. In terms of behavior, does are often more settled and exhibit the mature traits of adult goats.
What is a Buck Goat?
Bucks are male goats that are more than 1 year old. The term "buck" is used to describe mature males, distinguishing them from young males, which are called "bucklings." Bucks typically live between 8 and 12 years.
Bucks are known for their larger size, more pronounced physical features, and their role in breeding. They typically have well-developed horns (if the breed has them) and a more muscular build compared to females. Bucks are often kept for their breeding potential, as well as for meat, and sometimes for their milk or fiber, depending on the breed.
What is a Nanny Goat?
A nanny goat is another term for an adult female goat. Like "doe goat," the term "nanny goat" is used to refer to mature females who have typically reached their full size and reproductive capability.
Nanny goats are often valued for their milk, meat, or fiber, depending on the breed. They are generally more developed and experienced compared to young female goats, known as "doelings." The term "nanny" reflects their role in the herd, often involving caring for their kids (offspring) and playing a central part in the management of the goat herd.
What is a Billy Goat?
A billy goat is another term for an adult male goat. The term "billy" is used to describe mature males, distinguishing them from younger males known as "bucklings." In many regions, "billy goat" is used interchangeably with "buck."
Billy goats are recognized for their larger size, more robust physical features, and often more pronounced horns, depending on the breed. They play a key role in breeding and are sometimes valued for their meat, milk, or fiber.
What is a Wether Goat?
A wether goat is a castrated male goat. The term "wether" refers specifically to a male goat that has been neutered, usually at a young age. Wether goats typically live between 15 to 18 years.
Wethers are often kept for their meat or as companion animals because they generally have a more docile temperament compared to uncastrated males, who can be more aggressive and territorial. Castration also prevents the development of certain secondary sexual characteristics, making wethers easier to manage and integrate into a herd.
More information can be found in our in-depth guide What Is a Wether Goat? 7 Benefits to Raising Them.
What is a Female Goat Called?
A female goat is commonly called a "doe" or "nanny goat." The term "doe" is widely used to refer to adult female goats, while "nanny goat" is a more traditional term that also signifies a mature female. Young female goats, before reaching adulthood, are called "doelings."
Doe vs Buck, What is the Difference?
The main difference between a doe and a buck lies in their gender and roles. A doe is an adult female goat, known for her reproductive role, milking ability, and generally more docile nature.
In contrast, a buck is an adult male goat, characterized by his larger size, more pronounced horns, and sometimes more aggressive behavior. Bucks are primarily kept for breeding purposes and are often more robust compared to does.
Both play distinct roles in a goat herd, with does focusing on nurturing offspring and milk production, while bucks contribute to reproduction and may also be valued for their meat or fiber.
Final Thoughts
Understanding goat terminology by age is important for those buy, selling, breeding, or generally raising goats.
Each group defines the age, gender, or the ability to breed. These factors are exceedingly important, especially if you are looking to have the benefits of a male goat but are not looking to breed. This could be because you are content with the size of your herd, your goats may be related, or there could be complications with a doe carrying a healthy pregnancy to term.
Learn More
100+ Best Old Lady Names for Your Female Goats: Expanding your herd is an exciting time! If you have prior experience with goats, then you already know they each have unique personalities and traits. This not only allowed us to tell them apart, but also enriched our experience with our herd by strengthening our connection.
Raising Goats Guide: Ready to embark on your goat-raising journey? This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for all things goat-related. From housing and feeding to breeding and health care, we've got you covered!
Tools Every New Goat Owner Needs: Don't forget the essentials! This list of 10 must-have supplies for new goat owners will ensure that you're ready for anything.
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