Angora Goat
Breed Description

The Angora goat derives its name from Ankara (historically spelled Angora), the capital city of Turkey where the breed developed over centuries of selective breeding for fine, lustrous fiber. The region's name became synonymous with the luxurious fiber these goats produce, called mohair from the Turkish word "mukhyar" meaning fabric made from goat hair or from "mukhayyar" meaning choice or select. While Ankara also gave its name to Angora rabbits and Angora cats, the goat remains the most economically significant Angora animal due to mohair's commercial importance.

Historically, Angora goats were jealously guarded by Turkish authorities who prohibited their export to maintain monopoly on mohair production. This protection continued for centuries until the mid-1800s when Sultan Abdulmecid I gifted breeding stock to European and American interests. These gifts and limited smuggling established Angora populations outside Turkey, though Turkish mohair maintained reputation for superior quality. The term "Angora" became standardized worldwide for these fiber-producing goats, distinguishing them from meat and dairy breeds despite their shared species designation.

Within the fiber industry, Angoras are often simply called "mohair goats" referencing their primary product. The fiber itself is universally known as mohair, never called Angora fiber in commercial contexts to distinguish it from rabbit fiber which is called Angora. This terminology prevents confusion in textile markets where mohair and Angora rabbit fiber serve different purposes and command different prices. Terms like "mohair producers" or "fiber goats" appear in agricultural contexts, though "Angora goat" remains the official breed designation.

Several distinct strains exist within the Angora breed, developed in different regions after the breed's global dispersal. The original Turkish Angoras represent the foundation type, though modern Turkish populations may differ from historical animals. South African Angoras developed into a significant population after importation, with breeding selection emphasizing productivity in South African conditions. The United States, particularly Texas, established major Angora populations in the late 1800s, with American Angoras selected for adaptation to southwestern conditions while maintaining fiber quality. Australian Angoras represent another significant population. While these regional populations share fundamental characteristics, subtle differences in size, fleece characteristics, and hardiness reflect adaptation to local conditions and breeder preferences over generations.

Angora goats display moderate size with considerable variation between sexes, with does typically weighing 70 to 110 pounds and measuring 30 to 40 inches at the shoulder, while bucks range from 180 to 225 pounds and stand 40 to 50 inches tall. This size differential exceeds many breeds, with bucks substantially larger and more robust than does. Body conformation shows moderate frame supporting the voluminous fleece that can add significant apparent size without corresponding body weight. Well-bred Angoras display adequate bone, straight toplines, and sufficient body capacity for health and reproduction.

The Angora's defining characteristic is its remarkable fleece, consisting entirely of mohair fibers rather than the hair-fiber combination seen in most goats. Mohair grows continuously at approximately one inch per month, reaching 4 to 6 inches before each biannual shearing. The fiber hangs in long, lustrous ringlets or waves along the body, covering the animal completely except for face and lower legs. Quality mohair shows bright, silky luster distinguishing it from wool and common goat fiber. Color is typically white or cream, with colored Angoras including black, brown, red, and silver gaining specialty market interest though white mohair traditionally commands highest prices.

Fleece characteristics vary by age and sex, with kid mohair from young animals measuring fine and soft at 24-29 microns diameter, commanding premium prices for luxury garments. Young goat fiber (yearlings) measures slightly coarser at 27-32 microns, still suitable for fine textiles. Adult fiber ranges from 30-40 microns, appropriate for various textile applications from apparel to upholstery. Buck fiber is generally coarser than doe fiber, sometimes approaching hair rather than true mohair in older males. Fiber quality includes factors beyond fineness: luster, strength, crimp, and freedom from kemp (coarse, medullated fibers) all affect fleece value.

Facial features include straight or slightly dished profiles with alert, gentle expressions. Ears are typically heavy and pendulous, carried horizontally or drooping downward, covered in short hair rather than fleece. Eyes are medium-sized, ranging from amber to brown in color, providing alert appearance. Both sexes commonly carry horns, often spiraled and impressive particularly in bucks where they reach substantial size. Many producers disbud kids to prevent injuries during handling and crowding, though horned animals are traditional. The face, nose, and lower legs show short hair covering revealing underlying skin color, typically pink in white animals.

Body structure under the fleece should show adequate muscling without extreme bulk, as Angoras are neither meat nor dairy specialists. Does require sufficient body capacity for pregnancy and kidding, with adequate pelvic dimensions for delivering kids. Legs show medium bone with well-formed hooves, essential for soundness though often hidden by fleece until shearing. Udders in does are small to moderate, functional for kid raising though not developed for dairy production. The overall impression when fleece is intact is of a fluffy, substantial animal, though body weight is moderate relative to apparent size due to the voluminous but lightweight fleece covering the frame.

Angora goats display generally calm, gentle temperaments making them manageable for routine care and fiber production. Does are typically docile, accepting handling for shearing, hoof trimming, and health procedures when properly socialized from young ages. Bucks show increased assertiveness particularly during breeding season but generally remain manageable with appropriate respect and facilities. The breed's temperament suits fiber operations requiring frequent handling for fleece maintenance, though they retain typical goat intelligence and curiosity requiring secure facilities preventing escapes and protecting valuable fleece from damage.

Herd behavior demonstrates typical caprine social structures with clear hierarchies established through posturing and occasional head butting. Angoras form cohesive groups, maintaining visual contact and moving together particularly in response to threats or unfamiliar situations. Their docile nature means hierarchy enforcement occurs with minimal violence, though dominant animals control access to preferred feeding and resting areas. Groups containing animals of varying ages typically show older, experienced does assuming leadership roles, with bucks maintaining separate status outside breeding season particularly in operations managing breeding through controlled buck exposure.

Maternal behavior in Angora does varies, with some lines showing strong mothering instincts while others require intervention and assistance. The breed's domestication for fiber production rather than natural selection created populations where maternal behavior became less consistent than in range breeds where weak mothers produced no surviving offspring. Does typically deliver twins, though single births occur regularly particularly in first pregnancies. Angora kids can be less vigorous than hardy breed kids, requiring monitoring and sometimes assistance ensuring they nurse and receive adequate colostrum. Kidding during cold or wet weather dramatically increases kid mortality, requiring protected kidding areas and careful weather monitoring during breeding season planning.

Buck behavior follows typical caprine patterns with increased libido, aggression, and body odor during fall breeding season. Angora bucks develop characteristic rutting behaviors including urine spraying, blubbering, and mounting behavior directed toward does. However, they generally remain less aggressive than some meat breed bucks, manageable by experienced handlers with appropriate facilities and caution. Bucks require secure, separate housing preventing unplanned breeding and allowing controlled breeding season management for targeted kidding times. Their substantial size demands respect during all interactions, particularly during rut when even normally calm bucks become less predictable.

Angora goats demonstrate typical caprine intelligence, learning barn layouts, feeding schedules, and handler patterns quickly. They recognize individual humans, responding differently to regular caretakers versus strangers. Their problem-solving abilities mean weak points in fencing or housing will be discovered and exploited, requiring secure facilities. However, their docile nature compared to hardy range breeds means they're less motivated to escape when provided adequate feed, water, shelter, and social companionship. Training with patience and positive reinforcement proves effective for teaching behaviors including entering shearing stands, leading on halters, and accepting routine procedures. Their gentle disposition makes them suitable for educational programs and fiber demonstrations where animal tractability is essential, though their climate sensitivity and valuable fleece require knowledgeable handling preventing injury or fleece damage.

Angora goat housing is critical for breed health and fleece quality, requiring substantially more shelter than hardy breeds. Clean, dry housing with excellent drainage protects valuable fleece from contamination while preventing the wet conditions that cause hypothermia even in mild temperatures. Shelters must provide protection from rain, snow, and wind, with 15 to 20 square feet per animal allowing adequate space without overcrowding that damages fleece. Bedding including straw or wood shavings keeps animals dry and clean, requiring frequent replacement maintaining cleanliness standards essential for quality fiber production. Ventilation prevents respiratory disease while avoiding drafts that chill shorn animals.

Fencing for Angoras must balance security with fleece protection, as certain fence types snag and damage mohair. Woven wire fencing with small openings prevents hoof entanglement while avoiding barbed wire that catches fleece. Smooth wire electric fencing works well though requires consistent maintenance. Four to five foot fence height contains most Angoras, though determined individuals may challenge fences if motivated by superior forage. Clean fence lines without brush or debris prevent fleece contamination and snagging. Gates and working facilities should have smooth surfaces without rough edges or projections catching fiber.

Predator protection is essential as Angoras are particularly vulnerable due to their docile nature and valuable fleece that can entangle during escape attempts. Secure nighttime housing with solid walls and hardware cloth over openings protects against predators including coyotes, dogs, foxes, and raccoons. Their reduced vision near shearing time when fiber grows over eyes increases vulnerability. Livestock guardian dogs provide excellent protection for pastured Angoras, with dogs proven in mohair operations understanding the need to avoid fleece damage while protecting herds. Kids are especially vulnerable, requiring protected areas and vigilant monitoring during their first weeks.

Outdoor areas should provide clean grazing with 250 to 300 square feet minimum per animal, more in regions with lower forage productivity. Pasture quality significantly affects fleece contamination levels, with clean grass pastures preferable to weedy areas or dense brush that catch fiber. Rotational grazing maintains pasture quality while managing parasites through movement to fresh forage. Shade structures protect from summer heat, while windbreaks shelter from cold winds particularly important for recently shorn animals lacking insulation. Clean outdoor conditions minimize vegetable matter contamination reducing fiber value.

Specialized infrastructure for Angora operations includes shearing facilities with solid, clean floors and adequate space for equipment and fiber handling. Elevated shearing stands make the task less physically demanding while protecting fleece during processing. Fiber storage areas must be dry, clean, and protected from rodents and insects that damage stored mohair. Skirting tables for removing inferior fiber and contaminants before sale improve returns. Feeding equipment including hay racks should be designed preventing fiber contamination, with many operations using enclosed feeders keeping hay clean while preventing chaff and debris from embedding in fleece.

Kidding facilities require particular attention given Angora kids' vulnerability to cold and wet conditions. Clean, dry, draft-free areas with supplemental heat availability protect kids during cold weather kidding. Monitoring access allows prompt intervention if delivery complications arise or kids need assistance. Separate kidding stalls prevent interference from curious herd members while providing controlled environment for doe-kid bonding. Operations in cold climates time breeding for spring kidding when weather improves, though this delays fiber income from kids. Careful planning of kidding season balances kid survival with operational cash flow from fiber sales.

Angora goats require quality nutrition supporting body maintenance, reproduction, and continuous fiber growth, with dietary needs exceeding many meat breeds relative to body size. Fiber production demands substantial protein and energy, with mohair being primarily protein requiring adequate dietary protein for consistent growth and quality. Nutritional deficiencies directly affect fiber quality, reducing luster, strength, and growth rate, making careful feeding essential for profitable mohair production. Adequate nutrition also supports health and reproduction, preventing the metabolic problems to which Angoras are susceptible.

Quality forage provides the diet foundation with access to good pasture during growing season and high-quality hay year-round. Mixed grass-legume hay offers excellent nutrition, though pure grass hay supplemented with protein sources supports adequate fiber production. Angoras consume 3 to 4 pounds of hay daily when pasture is unavailable, with consumption varying by size, fiber growth rate, and environmental conditions. Free-choice hay access allows continuous fiber nutrient supply, important as mohair grows continuously rather than seasonally. Pasture quality significantly affects nutrition, with Angoras performing best on clean, nutritious grass rather than rough browse that other breeds utilize efficiently.

Grain supplementation is typically necessary for Angoras, particularly during pregnancy, lactation, and cold weather when energy demands increase. Does in late pregnancy require grain preventing pregnancy toxemia, a metabolic disorder to which Angoras are highly susceptible. Lactating does benefit from continued supplementation supporting milk production and maintaining body condition while producing fiber. Does may receive 1/2 to 1 pound daily depending on condition and production status. Bucks during breeding season require adequate nutrition maintaining vigor and body condition. Grain rations should contain 14-16% protein supporting fiber growth, with higher protein levels potentially beneficial for maximum mohair production.

Mineral and vitamin supplementation is critical for Angora health and productivity. Free-choice goat-specific loose minerals containing adequate copper, zinc, and other trace minerals support fiber quality and general health. Copper deficiency causes fiber loss and poor fleece development, making adequate supplementation essential. Selenium and vitamin E supplementation may be necessary in deficient regions, protecting against white muscle disease and supporting reproduction. Zinc affects fiber quality and immune function. Salt should be provided separately ensuring adequate sodium intake. While mineral requirements seem standard, their impact on fiber quality makes adequate supplementation particularly important in Angoras compared to breeds where mineral deficiency shows only in health problems rather than also affecting product quality.

Water access is essential for health and fiber production, with Angoras requiring 1 to 2 gallons daily depending on size, temperature, diet moisture, and production status. Clean, fresh water must be constantly available, as inadequate hydration reduces fiber growth and endangers health. Water quality affects consumption, with goats refusing stale or contaminated water even when thirsty. Winter water management preventing freezing ensures adequate intake critical for fiber production continuing year-round. Summer heat increases consumption substantially, requiring vigilant monitoring preventing dehydration that quickly reduces production. Lactating does have dramatically increased water needs, with inadequate consumption reducing milk production and kid growth.

Angora goats require vigilant health management as they're less hardy than many breeds, with their specialization for fiber production creating vulnerabilities requiring attentive care. The breed's susceptibility to cold, wet conditions makes weather-related illness and death significant concerns, particularly around shearing when animals lose their insulating fleece. Pregnancy toxemia, internal parasites, and external parasites all pose serious threats requiring preventive measures and prompt treatment. However, with appropriate care, facilities, and attention, Angoras live productive lives producing valuable fiber for a decade or more.

Angora goats reward careful management with valuable fiber and gentle companionship, though their maintenance demands exceed hardy range breeds. Maintaining detailed records of health events, production, and management allows informed decisions while identifying problems early. The investment in quality housing, appropriate nutrition, vigilant health monitoring, and prompt veterinary care pays dividends in fiber quality, animal longevity, and operational profitability. Prospective Angora keepers should carefully assess whether they can provide the attentive management these specialized animals require for success.

Handling Angora goats requires care protecting valuable fleece while ensuring animal safety and handler effectiveness. Approach animals calmly, avoiding grabbing fleece which can damage fiber and cause discomfort. Use solid handling facilities including catch pens and alleyways moving animals without excessive stress or fleece damage. Their generally docile nature makes physical handling straightforward, though their specialized needs require knowledgeable management. Training animals to accept handling from young ages creates adults comfortable with routine procedures essential for fiber production.

Shearing represents the most critical management task, occurring twice annually in spring and fall to harvest fiber while preventing excessive fleece length causing health and management problems. Professional shearers experienced with mohair provide quickest, highest-quality shearing, though small-scale producers may learn to shear their own animals. Timing shearing for favorable weather is critical, avoiding cold, wet conditions that cause hypothermia in newly shorn animals. Spring shearing typically occurs after frost danger passes, while fall shearing happens early enough that some fleece regrows before winter cold. Using animal coats on vulnerable individuals after shearing prevents hypothermia during weather changes.

Hoof care requires attention every 6 to 8 weeks maintaining proper foot angle and preventing overgrowth causing lameness and abnormal weight distribution. Their moderate size makes trimming manageable for most handlers. Use sharp hoof trimmers removing excess growth while preserving proper foot shape. Check for signs of infection or injury during each session, treating problems before they become serious. Well-maintained hooves are essential for animal comfort and mobility, particularly important as mobility problems can cause animals to lie down excessively, matting fleece.

Parasite management in Angoras emphasizes regular monitoring and targeted treatment preventing both internal and external parasite damage. FAMACHA scoring during grazing season identifies animals requiring deworming, with fecal egg counts confirming parasite burdens when needed. External parasite inspection before shearing identifies lice or mite infestations requiring treatment. Some operations routinely treat for external parasites before shearing ensuring clean, parasite-free fleece. Rotational grazing breaks internal parasite lifecycles, reducing treatment frequency while maintaining animal health.

Daily observation enables early problem detection before issues become serious. Healthy Angoras are alert, eating normally, and maintaining steady body condition and fleece growth. Changes in appetite, behavior, fleece condition, or isolation from herd mates warrant closer examination and possible veterinary consultation. Body condition scoring every few weeks tracks whether animals maintain appropriate weight, guiding feeding adjustments and identifying individuals needing additional attention. Particular vigilance during weather changes and around shearing time prevents hypothermia-related losses.

Kidding management requires particular attention given Angora kids' vulnerability. Most does kid without intervention, though monitoring allows prompt assistance if complications develop. Clean, dry, draft-free kidding areas protected from weather extremes improve kid survival. Check newborn kids promptly ensuring they're nursing and receiving adequate colostrum within the first hours. Weak kids may require supplemental feeding or warming to survive. The combination of careful kidding season planning, appropriate facilities, and attentive monitoring maximizes kid survival in this less hardy breed.

Angora goats suit dedicated fiber producers, homesteaders, and farms seeking high-value specialty products from livestock. Their primary product, mohair, commands premium prices in fiber markets when properly produced and marketed, creating potential for profitable operations despite the breed's management demands. However, Angoras require substantially more care than hardy meat or dairy breeds, making them suitable only for keepers willing to provide appropriate facilities, nutrition, and attentive management. Beginning livestock keepers should carefully consider whether their knowledge, facilities, and climate suit Angora production before acquiring these specialized animals.

The breed's climate sensitivity is the most critical suitability factor, as Angoras thrive only in relatively dry climates with moderate temperatures and excellent shelter availability. Regions with prolonged wet weather, high humidity, or harsh winters without substantial shelter cause high mortality and poor fiber production. Ideal climates include southwestern United States, Mediterranean regions, and other areas offering dry conditions and moderate temperatures. Prospective Angora keepers in humid climates, extremely cold regions, or areas with unpredictable weather should seriously consider whether they can provide the shelter and management overcoming climate challenges.

Financial considerations include substantial infrastructure costs for proper housing, shearing equipment, and fiber handling facilities. Quality breeding stock commands premium prices, particularly animals from proven fiber-producing bloodlines. Operating expenses include high-quality feed ensuring adequate nutrition for fiber production, regular shearing costs if not done personally, and potential veterinary expenses treating health problems to which Angoras are susceptible. However, mohair's high value creates income potential offsetting costs when operations maintain fiber quality standards and access appropriate markets.

Marketing mohair requires understanding fiber markets and quality standards, as poorly prepared or low-quality fiber receives substantially reduced prices. Many producers join fiber cooperatives providing collective marketing power and handling services. Direct marketing to hand spinners and fiber artists creates premium prices for quality fleece but requires networking and marketing skills. Commercial mohair marketing through warehouses provides reliable outlets though potentially lower returns than direct sales. The learning curve for fiber production, preparation, and marketing means beginning fiber producers often require several years establishing profitable operations.

Zoning and legal considerations apply to Angoras as to any livestock, with many jurisdictions restricting animal keeping in populated areas. Research local ordinances, HOA rules, and property restrictions before acquiring Angoras. Rural agricultural zoning typically accommodates fiber production, though setback requirements and animal number limitations may apply. The breed's relative quiet and cleanliness compared to some livestock makes them suitable for some suburban agricultural settings where zoning permits, though their shelter requirements and shearing noise may concern close neighbors.

Prospective Angora keepers should honestly assess whether their climate, facilities, knowledge, and dedication match breed requirements. Successful Angora production rewards attentive management with valuable fiber and gentle livestock companionship, but the breed is unforgiving of inadequate shelter, poor nutrition, or inattentive care. Those seeking low-maintenance livestock should consider hardier breeds, while dedicated fiber enthusiasts willing to provide appropriate care find Angoras rewarding and profitable when management aligns with breed needs.