Goats That Eat Blackberries

Blackberry brambles can be difficult to remove. Bulky machines and gas-burning saws are often utilized to tear down brambles. But in recent years, a new method of removal has emerged: goats. Because goats can digest blackberries and can clear whole acres in a short amount of time, they have set a new standard for yard mainenance. Some goat farmers have begun renting out herds to the public for bramble removal.

  1. Boer Goats

    • Boer goats originated in the 1900s in Dutch-occupied South Africa, and were introduced into America in the 1930s. Bred primarily for their meat, Boer goats quickly became a popular farming goat due to their high-quality meat and rapid growth time. These goats are also hearty eaters who can easily clear blackberry brambles at impressive rates, making them an excellent choice for landscaping projects. Boer goats can be recognized by their brown and white markings.

    Spanish Goats

    • Sometimes referred to as "scrub goats," Spanish goats are well-known for their hardiness, easy keeping and their ability to eat just about anything. They farm well and are most often raised for their milk. meat and hide. Spanish goats were originally brought to the Americas in the 1600s by Spanish explorers. Today, foundations are working to ensure that the breed's bloodline is preserved.

    Cashmere Goats

    • While they are smaller than Boer and Spanish goats, Cashmere goats are equally well-known for their ability to clear scrub and brambles. Cashmere goats breed easily and have notoriously wonderful personalities. They are perhaps best known for their quality hair, which can be used to produce high-grade cashmere. Their attitude, hardiness and appetite make them a favorite small-farm goat, as well as a popular showing goat.

    Nigerian Dwarf Goats

    • Nigerian Dwarf goats are also known as Nigerian Dairy goats, because of the breed's production of good-quality dairy. Originally from West Africa, these small, even-tempered goats make excellent pets and showing goats due to their wonderful personalities. Like Boer, Spanish and Cashmere goats, Nigerian Dwarf goats will eat just about anything, including weeds, brambles and scrub brush.