South African Genetics at T4 Ranch

It is clearly evident that the influence of South African Boer goats is obviously here to stay in the United States. It seems as if "Against All Odds" we have managed to overcome many obstacles left in our way by those skeptical of new and exciting ventures, especially those in agriculture.

Many times we have wondered what in this world could we have been thinking to have let ourselves get this far with something we knew so little about.

When the first Boer Goats came into the United States very few livestock producers were willing to take the risk or gamble on the success of an animal largely thought of as an "exotic" rather than a viable red meat commodity.

But, many years have passed now and it seems as if there is a Boer Goat on every farm and ranch, and, if not, one its way from somewhere. It is still a wonder for us to see the excitement of each person's first Boer Goat and its impact upon their family and friends.

And now for most breeders that have been in this business for a few years the new has begun to wear off and we have begun to seriously consider the real future of the "Boer Goat' and what that picture holds for global commerce.

We have made many friends in South Africa and are very proud to know these Boer Goat Producers and take quite seriously their comments and recommendations. Each trip to South Africa makes us more aware of just how little we do truly know about this animal. We have tried to implement their suggestions and those little hints into our breeding programs. And we must admit that it has made a huge difference in the quality type of Boer goat now being produced at this ranch.

There are so many breeders that would like to change the standards of the Boer Goat and we really can't figure out why. If a person really studies those standards and uses them to make corrections and upgrade their genetic base, there would not be a need to change them.

We are very proud of our South African Genetics and now feel like we have an excellent position in the starting gate for global commerce. The proof is really "In the Puddin'" for with most people you just can't fool them.

Quality begets quality -- if you have the right genetics.

Many of our matings have been Vlek on Vlek. We offered these genetics for sale again at our last Labor Day weekend production sale.

We have continued to follow Vlek's progress in South Africa and we were saddened to learn that he died two years ago.

Before he passed away he accomplished a great feat. He did actually prove he could reproduce his greatness over and over again. His genetics were shown at the World Championships 2000 in Rustenburg, South Africa, and he would have been very proud to have seen his accomplishments. His sons, daughters, grandsons, granddaughters, and his sister placed in the Top 10 and are continuing to become extraordinary breeders themselves.

The ability to pass on the genes seems to be the key function of the prime breeding buck we are looking for. And lets face it; the buck is most generally blamed for all the breeding mistakes, if true or not. But that buck is the key to the breeding kingdom, not the doe. For he shall impact your flock more than you could possibly know.

It seems it will still be some time before direct importation into the United States will be possible and then probably not financially feasible. This route is not for the weak of spirit nor, as Paul Newman once said, "It ain't for sissies." But we must confess we would do it all over again for we were fortunate to obtain excellent foundation stock from South Africa. May we suggest for those of you who are considering embryo importation from South Africa, there could be certain circumstances that one should be aware of:

1. Dealing directly with the farmer or Boer goat breeder whose genetics you wish to obtain will eliminate extra costs.
2. Be prepared to pay up front on all expenses.
3. If possible make a trip to select the couplings yourself so you won't be disappointed in your purchase.
4. Consult your embryo vet about the average conception rate for frozen embryos so you will know what to expect. We had hoped for at least 50% but our vet said we should be happy with 30% or less and we were. There are, of course, exceptions to this, and if you find breeders who have had better conception rates, please investigate further. Hopefully, you might very well find a hidden secret, one the vets would of course love to know.
5. Always keep in mind that just because it comes from South Africa doesn't necessarily mean it will end up being of the best quality. We all know that in any kidding program there are those that must be culled and not offered for sale, and by doing this it will alter even further the final number of goats whether you intend to keep them for foundation stock or offer them for sale.

Charro, Age 3 months
Charro, Age 6 months
Charro, Age 6 months
Charro, Age 1 year.
Charro, Age 1 year.

Related Links

• Our Embryo Transfer program.
• Our upcoming production sale for 2002
• Goats currently for sale at T4 Ranch.

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