Capra aegagrus hircus

The Oberhasli goat was originally a breed found in mountain regions in Switzerland under the name Swiss Alpine. They were first imported here to United States in the early 1900s as they were known to be a docile dairy breed species.  By the 1930s farmers were able to establish and maintain purebred herds of their own and in 1977 the name Oberhasli was adopted. The Oberhasli goat is a medium sized goat and they can weigh up to 150 pounds. They are known for their gentle disposition.  The females, called does, are an excellent milk producers with the record of 4665 lbs. of milk being produced in one year.  The male bucks and wethers make really good pack animals because they are strong and unlike other goat species do not fear crossing rivers and other trail obstacles. Their tan, brown and black color pattern is called “chamoisee.” The two sharp black lines that form at the top of their head and come down to the base of their nose are characteristic and unique to this species.

Swiss and Alpine

Date of Birth: March 12, 2014

Swiss and Alpine are brothers who were born on a farm in Leicester, North Carolina. They were donated to the Nature Center in May of 2014. Swiss is the larger of the two.

What Makes Swiss Unique? Swiss is very curious about machinery. He enjoys having his body blow dried by a leaf blower.

What Makes Alpine Unique? Alpine is the best behaved goat and he loves to eat blueberries.