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Since we are moving to the new cabin this summer, and the land is already partially cleared, I’ve been thinking about animals I want to add back to the homestead. We’ve had chickens, goats, rabbits and pigs out here. It won’t feel like a real homestead again until we get some animal pens together and some food growing!
Ducks
Muscovy – There are number of reasons Muscovy would be a great addition to our homestead. They eat mosquitoes and mice, are great mothers, have lean meat and are generally quiet birds. They are also a cold hardy breed and will do fine in our long cold winters.
Cayuga – Cayuga ducks are also a cold hardy breed that would do well in our winters. They have flavorful meat, are great layers and are an endangered heritage breed.
Cows
Highland – These are my favorite cows because LOOK HOW CUTE THEY ARE! I’d prefer to have miniature highlands (or mini any cow really). My family does not use enough milk to justify a full sized cow. Even though I intend on making yogurt, butter and cheese, 6-7 gallons of milk a day is way too much! Highlands are known for their cold hardiness, gentleness, feed efficiency, and lean meat. All of that translates into the miniatures as well. And being small makes a difference to me as a first time cow owner and milker too. There aren’t many breeders of mini highlands in Alaska, so I may need to travel to get one.
Rabbits
Silver Fox – A multi-purpose breed used for meat and fur. Silver Fox rabbits are known for being docile as well as good mothers. It is a large breed with adults reaching 11-12 lbs, and dressing out as much as 65% of their live weight.
American Chinchilla – A multi-purpose breed used for both meat and fur. American Chinchilla’s are a rarer breed, with adults weighing 9-12 lbs. They produce large litters and are wonderful mothers with a quick grow out rate.
Fish
Koi – As much as I would like to raise an edible fish in the pond I want to dig, Koi are my only option. There are too many permits required to purchase and transport “sport” fish or shellfish. Also, Koi are the only fish I’m allowed to use in aquaponics set-ups here, according to an email exchange I had with Fish & Game. They sure are pretty though!
Fingers crossed I’ll be able to get started with each of these in the next few years!
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