Damascus Goat Characteristics & Breed Information
Damascus Goat Characteristics & Breed Information
The Damascus goat is a breed of domestic goat generally used for milk production. It is mainly raised in Cyprus, Lebanon and Syria. The breed is also known by some other names such as Aleppo, Baladi, Chami, Damascene, Halep or Shami. The Damascus goat is a native breed of the Middle East, and it has been raised in big herds throughout the region. This goats were exported by the British at some time in the nineteenth Century. They were taken to Cyprus where they were then bred and raised in large numbers. It was during this time that the breed picked up the name “Damascus“.
The Damascus goat was mentioned in many classics of Arabic literature. In fact, the breed appear in the religions and folklore of the region as well. Because of being noble and having striking characteristics, the Damascus goat was used for creating many other goat breeds. And there has been interest in the breeding and genetics of this goat. A Damascus goat named Qahr won the first prize for the “Most Beautiful Goat” title at the Mazayen al-Maaz competition in Riyadh on June 13, 2008. Read more information about this goat breed below.
Damascus Goat Characteristics
The Damascus goats are large in size, and are of the Nubian type. They are usually red or brown in color, but can also be seen in pied or grey color. They are usually long haired. They can be either horned or polled. Fully grown Damascus goats have a long neck and long legs. Their head is relatively small. Like most other goats, the Damascus bucks are usually larger and heavier than the does. The bucks on average weight about 70-90 kg. And average weight of the does is about 50-60kg.
Uses
Damascus goat is a dairy goat breed and mainly used for milk production. But they are valued not only for milk, but also for meat.
Special Notes
The Damascus goat is described as being noble, and having striking characteristics. They are very beautiful and used in the creation of many other popular goat breeds. The does can give birth of three to four kids per kidding, if given the proper care. The does are pretty good milk producers. On average the does can produce up to 1.5 kg milk daily. The milk of the Damascus goat is noted for being extremely easy to digest for anyone who may have issues digesting more normal dairy products. They are usually of good behavior and have relatively calm temperament. Review full breed profile of the Damascus goat in the following chart.
Damascus Goat | Breed Profile
Breed Name Damascus
Other Name The breed is also known as Aleppo, Baladi, Chami, Damascene, Halep or Shami.
Breed Purpose Milk
Breed Size Large
Weight
Buck About 70-90 kg
Doe About 50-60 kg
Horns Can be either horned or polled
Climate Tolerance All Climates
Coat Color Usually red or brown in color, but can also be seen in pied or grey.
Good for Stall Fed Not Sure
Rarity Common
Country/Place of Origin Syria
