1. Poultry:
* Chickens: Meat (broilers), eggs (layers), and sometimes for fighting (gamecocks).
* Turkeys: Meat and eggs.
* Ducks: Meat and eggs.
* Geese: Meat and eggs, also for feathers.
* Guinea fowl: Meat and eggs, often raised for pest control.
* Quail: Meat and eggs, considered a delicacy.
2. Rabbits:
* Meat, fur, and pets.
3. Goats:
* Meat, milk (dairy goats), fiber (angora goats), and sometimes for clearing brush.
* Note: While goats can be considered small livestock, some breeds can get quite large.
4. Sheep:
* Meat, wool, and milk.
* Note: While sheep are typically considered livestock, some breeds like the Shetland sheep are smaller and can be considered part of the "small livestock" category.
5. Other:
* Pigs: Some miniature pig breeds can be considered small livestock.
* Camelids: Llamas and alpacas are raised for fiber, meat, and pack animals.
* Other small mammals: Some people raise animals like chinchillas, guinea pigs, or even rats for meat or fiber.
Key Characteristics of Small Livestock:
* Smaller size: They are generally smaller than traditional livestock.
* Easier management: They require less space and resources.
* Faster growth: They often reach maturity quicker than larger animals.
* Multiple purposes: They can be raised for a variety of products.
Advantages of Raising Small Livestock:
* Lower initial investment: Less expensive to start.
* Less space requirements: Can be raised in smaller areas.
* Faster return on investment: Can produce products quicker.
* Sustainable: Can be raised using more environmentally friendly practices.
* Potential for diversification: Offers options for various income streams.
Disadvantages of Raising Small Livestock:
* Higher labor intensity: Often require more hands-on care.
* Potential for diseases: Susceptible to various diseases.
* Market volatility: Prices can fluctuate significantly.
* Predator risk: Vulnerable to predators in certain areas.
The term "small livestock" can be somewhat subjective, and the specific animals included in this category may vary depending on the region and individual farming practices.