For anyone following the NZ Arapawa Goat Association, you'll know they are working on the exciting - but equally nerve-wracking - counts on Arapawa Island goats registered and observed in New Zealand.
Following this breed where they come from is extremely important in watching their numbers, and we are thankful to see they have just under 300 active members in their association! Registration numbers currently sit at 359 Arapawa Goats, with 273 of those being does and 86 bucks. While they need to do some updates on these exact numbers, seeing so many does in rotation is a wonderful step in increasing numbers of the breed. The feral population is, unfortunately, not doing as great. There are estimated to be about 60 individuals left, as well as the possibility of crossbreeds out on private land. The feral herds on the reserve are not expected to survive with such low numbers, but we can put out hope for them.
We appreciate the work everyone, from our friends in NZ to those here in the US. Our efforts to keep this breed alive are seen, and each year we are excited to see these numbers increase and awareness for the breed spread. Keep it up!
Note: This information was gathered from the NZ Arapawa Goat Association Facebook page as of 11/22/2024.
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