Sheldon The Arapawa Island Goat - Our Endangered Breed Hero

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Meet Sheldon, our lovable Arapawa Island Goat here at Dalby Farm in Scituate, Massachusetts. It’s hard to believe that two years ago, Sheldon arrived to us all the way from Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas—bringing with him a personality as unique as the breed he represents.

Sheldon has a few favorite things: animal crackers, maple leaves, and, of course, hay. But his absolute favorite pastime? Playing with his food dish and jumping up and down in excitement as he takes pride in greeting each and every vistor.

He might be a goat, but he’s got style—and we all know that he loves the attention, especially when it’s time for pets and cuddles. Sheldon might be the life of the party here, but he also represents something much bigger—something crucial to preserving the diversity of our agricultural history.

The Arapawa Island Goat is critically endangered. With a population that hovers around just a few hundred animals worldwide, this breed is at risk of disappearing forever. Native to Arapawa Island in New Zealand, these goats have been isolated for centuries, making them an essential part of the region’s natural heritage. But today, small farms like ours at Dalby Farm are working hard to change that.

Through intentional breeding programs and by raising awareness, we’re doing our part to help grow the Arapawa population. By carefully selecting animals for breeding and focusing on their health, we hope to ensure that these rare and resilient creatures have a future beyond the edges of the world’s most isolated islands.

So the next time you see Sheldon enjoying his animal crackers or basking in the spotlight, know that he’s not just a funny, adorable goat—he’s a part of something much bigger. And at Dalby Farm, we’re proud to be a small but vital piece of the puzzle in preserving this extraordinary breed.

"Together, we’re helping keep history alive—one hoof at a time.”