San Clemente Island

The San Clemente Island goat is a rare domestic goat breed that traces to feral herds formerly established on San Clemente Island, one of the Channel Islands off California. When goats were removed from the island to protect native plants and habitats, a small number entered private conservation herds. The breed is usually fine-boned, athletic, and moderate in size, with horns, alert ears, and a range of earth-toned coats. Dark facial stripes and primitive-style markings are especially characteristic.

Keeping San Clemente Island goats is often a stewardship project as much as a production choice. They are browsers that suit low-input farms with good fences, but they still require routine goat care, parasite monitoring, minerals, and protection from severe weather. Because the population is limited, responsible breeders pay close attention to parentage, genetic diversity, and placement of breeding animals. They are sometimes milked on a small scale, yet buyers should not expect the output of a modern Saanen or Alpine. The main practical goal is maintaining healthy, typical goats for the future.

Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Brown, Brown and White, Buckskin, Chamoisee, Cou Blanc, Cou Clair, Cream, Fawn, Gold, Moonspotted, Pinto, Red, Red and White, Roan, Spotted, Sundgau, Swiss Marked, Tan, White