The North Cheviot wild goat herd in Northumberland is likely to be reduced this autumn due to conflict with other land management practices in the area. This historically and genetically important unit of goats is an excellent remaining example of our British Primitive Goat and has been placed on the Native Breeds at Risk (NBAR) register by DEFRA . As such they may be eligible for subsidy under agri-environment schemes. It has also recently (July 2024) been recognised as a Rare Breed by the Rare Breed Survival Trust.
This is an exciting opportunity to help in our attempts to conserve this ancient breed. The goats are excellent for scrub control in a variety of habitats. If you have space on any conservation grazing projects, or can help our conservation efforts by keeping a few to help boost overall population size and maintain genetic diversity, then please do get in touch.
If you can help please contact Shirley Goodyer as soon as possible.
email: britishprimitivegoats@gmail.com
Shirley Goodyer
British Primitive Goat Research Group