The Rarest Goat in the world: A Brief Breed History

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The Arapawa Island Goat, today considered the rarest goat in the world, has a remarkable—and at times, heartbreaking—history. These goats are native to Arapawa Island, located in the Marlborough Sounds of New Zealand. But how did they become so endangered? Let’s take a look at the story behind their near extinction.

In the 1800s, European settlers introduced goats to Arapawa Island as part of their farming practices. The goats were intended for meat, milk, and wool production, and they thrived in the wild, adapting to the rugged terrain and isolated environment of the island. Over time, a unique breed emerged—known for their hardiness, agility, and distinct appearance, including their short, sleek coats and strong, compact bodies."

However, as New Zealand’s agricultural practices evolved, the need for these goats began to decline. By the mid-20th century, most farmers no longer saw them as essential livestock. And as the islands became more settled, the goats were often seen as a nuisance, outcompeting native species for resources.

Stories differ on this and I’ll need to make a longer video offering a deep dive on how it really went down but as the years went on, their numbers began to dwindle. The introduction of more domesticated breeds, combined with habitat destruction and hunting, left the Arapawa Island Goat at risk. These once-robust animals, left to fend for themselves in the wild, found it harder and harder to survive.

By the 1990s, the Arapawa Island Goat had become critically endangered. Fewer than 100 goats remained in the wild, with no organized breeding programs in place to save them. Without intervention, they faced the very real threat of extinction.

Thanks to the efforts of conservationists and dedicated farms like Dalby Farm, the Arapawa Island Goat has been given a second chance. Through responsible breeding programs and raising awareness about the breed, we’re working to ensure these beautiful, resilient creatures have a place in the world for generations to come."

While they may have come close to disappearing forever, the Arapawa Island Goat is far from forgotten. Their story reminds us of the importance of conservation, and how a little attention can make a big difference in saving a species from the brink of extinction."

Join us in supporting the preservation of the Arapawa Island Goat—because every creature deserves a second chance. Follow us on socials, spread the word or even consider a purchase from our country store / visit to our farm (by appointment only!).